LEADERS' WIVES' ROLE TO CEMENT DIPLOMATIC TIES

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Wives of countries' leaders also have their
own important roles in helping to cement diplomatic ties between Malaysia and
Indonesia.

The Prime Minister's wife, Rosmah Mansor, said this directly helped the ties
between the two countries which were not easily affected adversely due to small
and petty issues.

"As close neighbours there will always be various issues that involve the
people of both nations. Although those issues needed to be resolved at the
government level I am sure those issues would not estrange the existing close
ties," she said at a get-together together with the wife of the President of
Indonesia, Ani Yudhoyono, at Sri Satria here.

In her speech, Ani agreed with Rosmah said if there are problems between
Malaysia and Indonesia if would not reduce, even by a bit, the relationship and
ties between the two countries.

"This we must instill in the people of both countries," she said.

Ani is here accompanying her husband, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who is on a
two-day visit to Malaysia beginning Wednesday.

She also thanked the Malaysian government's concern and care for being
always ready to giving aid to Indonesians whenever the country was struck by
natural disasters.

"We also thank Malaysia for the good treatment towards Indonesians working
and studying here," she said.

She also hoped that all Indonesians working here would do their jobs well.

Ani also expressed interest to share experiences and activities between
Bakti and the association of wives of Indonesian cabinet ministers.
-- BERNAMA