Ambassador's statement on recent incidents in Papua Province, Indonesia

Statement issued by Ambassador of New Zealand, H.E. Mr David Taylor

23 February 2013

"On behalf of the New Zealand government, I wish to convey sympathy to Indonesia over the killings of eight soldiers and four civilians in Papua province on 21 February. I extend deepest condolences to the families of those slain.

"Violence in Papua advances no cause. The escalation represented by the killings on 21 February is of serious concern. A climate of insecurity will not assist Papua’s development and the welfare of its people.

"I hope that the perpetrators of these killings will be apprehended and treated in full accordance with Indonesian law. I note that H.E. President Yudhoyono, while stating that authorities will respond firmly, has reiterated his instruction to the military and police to respect the law and human rights."