Media Release
FA 18 - 5 February 2004
Bali Regional Ministerial Meeting on Counter-Terrorism
I co-chaired a successful meeting with my counterpart from Indonesia, HE Dr Hassan Wirajuda, - the Bali Regional Ministerial Meeting on Counter-Terrorism from 4 to 5 February. The Australian delegation was led by the Attorney-General, the Hon Mr Ruddock MP. The meeting was attended by 25 countries, with strong Ministerial representation. Other countries and international organisations observed the meeting.
This landmark Meeting delivered clear and practical outcomes. It highlighted Australia's strong commitment to working together with Asia-Pacific partners to tackle the very real and grave threat terrorism poses to the region and beyond. It is also another example of the benefits flowing from the excellent cooperation that exists between Indonesia and Australia.
The Co-Chairs' Statement issued at the conclusion of the meeting today in Bali identified ways of strengthening the region's counter-terrorism effort, especially in the critical areas of law enforcement, information sharing and legal frameworks. The Meeting expressed firm resolve to enhance regional cooperation on counter-terrorism and provided some key recomendations on ways to further strengthen and consolidate regional efforts.
In order to ensure follow through on their recommendations, Ministers agreed to establish two working groups. One working group will be led by Australia. This group will consist of senior legal officials from the region and will identify areas for improvement and assistance to strengthen regional legal frameworks, including in the areas of mutual legal assistance and extradition for terrorist-related offences, implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions and the 12 UN counter-terrorism related conventions. The second working group will be led by Indonesia. It will bring together senior law enforcement officials to share operational experience and exchange information, including on criminal intelligence.
Australia and Indonesia announced the establishment of the Indonesia Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation. This initiative was welcomed by participating Ministers with a number indicating their willingness to participate in the activities of the centre or provide support to its operations.
The Meeting affirmed that terrorism, irrespective of its origins, motivation or objectives, continues to constitute a threat to all peoples and countries, and to our common interest in ensuring peace, stability, security and economic prosperity in our region and beyond. Ministers reiterated their strong condemnation of acts of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Media inquiries: Chris Kenny +61 02 6277 7500 - Julie McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555