Jakarta, Monday, 19 May, 2003

The European Union, Japan, the United States, and the World Bank, Co-chairs of the Tokyo Preparatory Conference of Peace and Reconstruction in Aceh deeply regret that the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) failed to seize the unique opportunity before them and continue to call upon the parties to solve the issue peacefully.

The December 9, 2002 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement allowed people in Aceh to enjoy a rare period of peace after years of bloody struggle, and represented the best framework upon which to resolve the Aceh conflict in a process based on democracy and respect for human rights. The Co-chairs do not believe that the obstacles to a peaceful solution are insurmountable, even at this late hour. For that reason, it is of grave concern that renewed hostilities would take Aceh farther away from the path of peace. The Co-chairs encourage both parties to leave the door open to further dialogue and will continue to follow the process closely. In view of the overwhelming desire of the people in Aceh to live in peace, the Co-chairs remain ready to support the dialogue process and the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. The Co-chairs affirm their commitment to the territorial integrity of Indonesia and the peaceful resolution of the conflict based on Special Autonomy.

The Co-chairs also wish to express their appreciation to the Government of Japan for the exceptional logistical arrangements provided for this meeting as well as to the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue for its long-standing efforts to facilitate peace.