TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:The Japanese government supports Indonesias plan to leave the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at the end of 2003. However, Japan has confirmed it will continue supporting Indonesia in completing its program with the IMF as regards various economic reform measures. Japanese Ambassador for Indonesia Yutaka Iimura made this comment during a meeting with President Megawati at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday (17/3). Supported by Japan, I believe Indonesia will complete the IMF program by implementing various economic reform measures, Iimura said after meeting with the President. The Ambassador went on to say that this year Japan has provided aid for Indonesia to cover the deficit of the State Budget. Japan conveyed this commitment during the recent CGI meeting. However, Iimura did not mention the actual amount involved. We cannot yet mention the amount because there need to be discussions first, he said. Japan supports Indonesias efforts to improve the investment climate. We appreciate the forming of the Gotong Royong cabinets task force on investment to increase investment, the ambassador said. Iimura suggested the government to take comprehensive measures in increasing investment. Some Japanese investors, who are members of the Japan Club and the Japan Chambers of Commerce, have said they are interested in investing in Indonesia. They said that the have submitted about 80 proposals to the Indonesian government. However, they have also asked the government to improve the tax, customs and labor systems. We need further discussions on these matters, said Iimura. (Retno Sulistyowati --- TNR)
