U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Office of the Spokesman

Statement by
Secretary of State Colin L. Powell
July 22, 2001

Topic: Events in Indonesia

The United States is deeply concerned with President Wahid's declaration of a state of emergency and his intention to suspend the democratically-elected Parliament and the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), the highest institution in Indonesia's political structure. This is a critical juncture in Indonesia's democratic political development. We call upon all parties, including the military, police and the people of Indonesia, to exercise restraint, avoid incitements to violence and allow for a peaceful, democratic and constitutional process to unfold.

END