Timika, Papua (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has asked the Indonesian military and police to give security guarantee to businesses and investments in Papua as part of efforts to accelerate economic development in the country`s easternmost province.

One of the keys to encouraging the growth of private businesses and investments in Papua was creating a tranquil and comfortable climate, the President was quoted by his special aide for regional development and autonomy Velix V. Wanggai as saying on Sunday.

The private businesses and investments in Papua served as the main agents in accelerating the growth of the local people`s economy, he said.

"The President has always encouraged the implementation of a master plan for expansion and acceleration of the Indonesian economy. Papua is one of the socio-economic corridors besides Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi and Kalimantan," he said.

Asked to comment on security around PT Freeport Indonesia`s mining area at Mimika, Velix said the President had learnt views from the management of the gold and copper mining company.

In responding to the views, the President had given directives to the National Defence Forces (TNI) and Police (Polri) leaderships to maintain the existing conducive situations in Papua, he said.

He said TNI Chief Admiral Agus Suhartono`s and Police Chief General Timur Pradopo`s visits in Timika, Merauke and Jayapura, Papua, was a manifestation of the two state institutions` commitment to preserving security stability in the province.

"I am pleased that the TNI and Polri chiefs could come to Papua. The visit of the two leaders has of course given great meaning to the two institutions, ranging from the lowest, medium to highest levels in dealing with various issues in Papua," he said.

To ensure stable security conditions in Papua, he said the President underscored the importance of establishing good communication and coordination among the ranks and files of the regional government. (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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