Dili Asks for Assistance in Eradicating Corruption
Wednesday, 30 April, 2008 | 17:34 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta: The Timor Leste government has asked for Indonesian assistance to eradicate corruption.

This statement was made by Timor Leste Prime Minster Xanana Gusmao yesterday when meeting Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono at the State Palace in Jakarta.

According to Xanana, technical and non-technical assistance is needed from the Commission to Eradicate Corruption (KPK).

“We are asking for support, advice, technical assistance and facilities to overcome the problem of corruption in our country,” he said in a press conference.

Based on the Corruption Perception Index reported by Transparency International, Timor Leste’s position is better than that of Indonesia.

Last year, Timor Leste was in the 123rd position, a drop of 11 places from the previous year’s position with an IPK value of 2.6.

Indonesia, with an IPK value of 2.3 was in the 143rd position, 13 places lower than before.

However, the potential for corruption emerged after a former Timor Leste ambassador for Indonesia, Arlindo Marcal, was declared as a suspect for smuggling luxury cars to Indonesia.

Indonesia agrees with the idea of working together to eradicate corruption.

“I hope KPK can work together with Timor Leste for better governance,” said Yudhoyono.

The President also asked KPK to immediately realize this cooperation.

Ninin Damayanti | Kurniasih Budi | Faisal Assegaf