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Indonesian political leader clashes with Australian Minister

An Indonesian political leader has clashed with Australia's Immigration Minister over the treatment of Indonesian sailors involved in people smuggling.

Dr Amien Rais says he had a hot argument with Philip Ruddock.

The chairman of Indonesia's People's Assembly is leading a Parliamentary delegation visiting Canberra.

Dr Amien Rais told the Immigration Minister that four Indonesian sailors arrested after the Tampa affair are undeducated people, not criminals.

He says he told Mr Ruddock that Australia is a prosperous country that can deal with asylum seekers as a humanitarian problem.

I believe that Australia is a great country. Australia is a continental country which can absorb a couple of thousand unfortunate people. But of course through the proper, legal immigration process.

20/09/01 4:30:08 | ABC Radio Australia News

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