"The government is studying and exploring various aspects of the matter in an attempt to explain to the community the entire issue comprehensively and clearly," Wiranto said.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The government is exploring the issue of dual citizenship of Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Archandra Tahar.

"The government is studying and exploring various aspects of the matter in an attempt to explain to the community the entire issue comprehensively and clearly," Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, Wiranto, said here on Monday.

The problem should be resolved soon lest it interferes with the performance of the working cabinet.

The minister called upon the people to be patient and trust the government to resolve the case.

As reported earlier, Archandra Tahar is a holder of two passports, one from Indonesia and the other from the United States.

Indonesia, however, does not recognize the concept of dual citizenship.

Minister Archandra Tahar has also confirmed that he was an Indonesian passport holder.

"My Indonesian passport is still valid. Please check," he told the media people in the premises of the energy and mineral resources ministry.

He reminded that he had surrendered his US citizenship.

In addition, Minister/State Secretary Pratikno had earlier reiterated that Archandra Tahar is an Indonesian passport holder.

"We want to confirm that Mr Archandra Tahar is a holder of an Indonesian passport. He came to Indonesia using his Indonesian passport, which is valid until 2017," Pratikno disclosed here on Sunday, when attending the National Scout Jamboree kicked off by President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

He pointed out that many Indonesians who have made great achievements live overseas.

"This particular person is very important to help our country, our own nation. Moreover, Mr Archandra has international qualifications," he underlined.

He said President Jokowi was interested in having Archandra Tahar in his cabinet lineup because Archandra was a PhD in ocean engineering.

Archandra accepted the presidents offer because he wanted to dedicate his services to the nation, Pratikno concluded.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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