Statement by President Martti Ahtisaari after the third round of talks between the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement

16.4.2005

Search for a peaceful solution with dignity for all

We have just finished the third round of talks between the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) in search of a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Aceh. The negotiations have been held in a positive and constructive atmosphere. The parties have reached a general understanding on the guiding principles of the continuation of the negotiation process as follows:

· Both parties seek a permanent and comprehensive solution with dignity for all.
· The negotiations will seek to define the framework for the local administrative structure of Aceh.
· The negotiations will explore the form of participation in local elections.
· The negotiations will define the details of providing amnesty.
· Transparency will be enhanced for the collection and allocation of revenues between the central government and Aceh.
· Both parties welcome the possible involvement of regional organisations in monitoring the commitments that will be undertaken by the parties in the agreement.
· Both parties will do their utmost to restrain their security forces in the field during the negotiation process.

The parties have decided to continue the dialogue and I have invited them to a fourth round of talks on 26-31 May 2005. I would like to express my thanks to the Government of Finland and the European Commission for facilitating the organising of the talks in Finland.