Fed: PM says Papua boat asylum decision unsatisfactory

AAP General News (Australia)
04-07-2006
Fed: PM says Papua boat asylum decision unsatisfactory

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has urged Indonesians to understand the processes .. by
which Australia granted protection visas to a group of Papuan asylum seekers.

And .. speaking on Southern Cross Broadcasting .. he's urged them to show restraint.

All but one of the 43 Papuans who arrived by boat were granted temporary protection
visas last month .. straining relations with Jakarta.

Indonesia has recalled its ambassador to Canberra .. and there have been calls for
boycotts of Australian products .. and threats of violence against expat Australians.

Mr HOWARD says the decision wasn't aimed at offending Indonesia .. and Australia still
regards Papua as an Indonesian province.

AAP RTV mb/mfh/sco/rt

KEYWORD: INDON PAPUA HOWARD (CANBERRA)

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