PMs plan shared tack on E Timor

QUEENSTOWN - The New Zealand and Australian Governments appear to have reached an accord on East Timor, agreeing to consult about any action to help the territory as it approaches independence from Indonesia.

It was one of the issues discussed at the weekend in Queenstown between Prime Minister Jenny Shipley and her Australian counterpart, John Howard.

"I think we have a very similar view on East Timor," Mr Howard told reporters.

"Obviously Australia will play a major role in the future of East Timor ... New Zealand is obviously willing to play her part as well."

Mrs Shipley said she would look to Australia for a lead, should the need for aid or peacekeeping arise.

"New Zealanders feel very strongly about this and would want to assist in an appropriate way."

Both Prime Ministers said it was premature to talk about the possibility of aid or peacekeeping as that sort of action would not be needed if there was a peaceful transition to independence.

The two leaders are concerned that if change occurs too fast East Timor could be destabilised.

"We want to encourage the Indonesians and the people of East Timor to reach an understanding and an outcome that is going to provide the maximum economic and social stability," Mr Howard said.

Mrs Shipley has also signalled a tougher anti-drugs regime after discussing problems across the Tasman with Mr Howard.

Australia is experiencing a surge in hard-drug imports, and the narcotics are much cheaper than they were because of the Asian currency crisis.

The Australian Government is putting $A87 million ($103 million) into strengthening border control, treatment and education programmes.

Mrs Shipley said she did not need persuading that the problem was serious. "I am not one who favours decriminalisation or going soft on this issue."

Exchanging information with Mr Howard had been valuable, the Prime Minister said.

She confirmed that the Government was looking at border control, treatment for addicts and education programmes and said it planned close contact with Australian authorities.
- NZPA

Pictured: Jenny Shipley and John Howard. PICTURE / SOUTHLAND TIMES