Today, Acting Leader of the Australian Labour Party, Senator Chris Evans has visited the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia for formally expressing the condolences and sympathies of the Australian Labour Party to the Indonesian government and its people, as well as the victims of the recent natural disaster in the Provinces of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam and North Sumatra.

After signing the condolence book, Senator Chris Evans has met with the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia H.E. Mr. Imron Cotan, during which he stated the commitment of the Australian Labour Party to support the Indonesian government for the relief and reconstruction efforts in the Provinces of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam and North Sumatra over the coming years.

On behalf of the Indonesian government, H.E. Mr. lmron Cotan conveyed his appreciation for the commitment of assistance offered by the Australian Labour Party, and is looking forward to working closely with the Australian Labour Party and the Australian government for the relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction programs in the affected areas.

Canberra, 10 January 2005