Bangkok – Asean foreign ministers yesterday backed Indonesia against its rebellious provinces of Aceh and Irian Jaya, saying that the country's unity was crucial to regional peace.

"The foreign ministers reiterated their continuing support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity of Indonesia, which includes the provinces of Aceh and Irian Jaya," the communique said.

The ministers also commended measures taken by Jakarta to restore law and order in these provinces, where pro-independence elements have been operating. "The foreign ministers reaffirmed that the stability and prosperity of Indonesia would positively contribute to the peace, stability and prosperity of the Asian region as a whole," it added.

Reference to the bloody conflict in the Maluku islands – contained in earlier drafts – was deleted. Diplomatic sources said Indonesia had asked that the portion be removed because Jakarta deems it an internal problem.

Earlier yesterday, Indonesia rejected foreign mediation to end the sectarian strife in the Malukus which has left at least 4,000 people dead and displaced half a million people. Indonesian Foreign Minister Alwi Shihab thanked his counterparts for their support. "I think this only reaffirms what the Asean countries have stated before. We are grateful for that," he said.