"The issue, which is supposed to be settled at the state level, has begun to involve politicians and community members," Hikmahanto said.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - A university professor has expressed concern over the strain on relations between Indonesia and Australia following allegations of Australia spying on Indonesian state officials.
Hikmahanto Juwana, an international law professor at the University of Indonesia, said here on Thursday that relations between the two countries have deteriorated because of the alleged tapping of the cell phones of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and several other ministers by the Australian intelligence agency.
"The issue, which is supposed to be settled at the state level, has begun to involve politicians and community members," he added.
He said politicians from both countries could even insult each other, after an Australian parliament member insulted Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa.
It is not impossible to conceive that Indonesian parliamentary members will retaliate, he added.
"In the cyber world, insults have already been exchanged between Indonesian and Australian citizens," he noted.
Hikmahanto said he wondered how the government would ease tensions between both countries.
"How long will the government wait for the Australian government to acquiesce to Indonesias demand for an explanation and clarification over the issue. Will it take days, weeks, months or even years?" he asked.
If the Australian government does not give an explanation, the Indonesian government could increase pressure, he added.
Hikmahanto hoped that tensions could be eased and contained by both governments concerned.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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