No to ban Australian imports

I am writing this letter to remind readers that the Indonesian government has not been successful in guaranteeing its citizens free education, prosperity, clean government free of corruption, adequate employment and basic freedoms. Many people are still suffering economically, intellectually and politically.

It is a basic freedom for the Papuans to seek asylum in Australia, which is also guaranteed by the Indonesian Constitution.

We do not live in a dictatorship and we, the people, believe in democracy and basic freedoms.

It is sad to see the Association of National Importers (GANSI) and others trying to ban Australian imports. Australia is a country which believes in clean government, freedom, democracy and prosperity. I will not and never will ban Australian imports!

HIMAWAN D. SUSASTRA
Jakarta