05 May 2009
State Department’s Karl Stoltz Discusses U.S.-Indonesia Relations
CO.NX webchat transcript, May 5
Karl Stoltz, director of public diplomacy in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, answered questions in a May 5 CO.NX webchat on relations between the United States and Indonesia. The discussion covered various issues, including President Obama, visas and piracy.
Following is the transcript:
(begin transcript)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Bureau of International Information Programs
Webchat Transcript
CO.NX Webchat: A New Beginning for Indonesian and U.S. Relations?
Guest: Karl Stoltz
Date: May 5, 2009
Time: 8 a.m. EDT (12:00 GMT) Jakarta (19:00)
Webchat Moderator (Tim): Please submit your questions below on Indonesia and U.S. relations. Mr. Stoltz will be live and online on May 5 at 19:00 Jakarta time (1200GMT).
Webchat Moderator (Tim): Once submitted your questions will appear in red and we have received them. Thank you.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Welcome to today's webchat. The session will begin at 1200GMT/1900 Jakarta.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): We are taking your questions now.
Comment [andrei scofield]: haloo
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Hello andrei, welcome.
Question [yoes.kenawas]: Hello is there anyone here?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Greetings, yes we are online. The session will begin at 1900 Jakarta.
Question [El Arief]: where is Mr stoltz
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Mr. Stoltz will login to the webchat at the top of the hour.
Question [andrei scofield]: is obama will join this?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): I'm sorry, President Obama will not join today's webchat session. Our guest speaker will be Mr. Karl Stoltz of the U.S. Department of State.
Comment [yohansyah]: Hi Mark
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Hello, welcome!
Question [Trishti]: can we submit the questions now?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Yes, please do begin submitting your questions.
Question [yohansyah]: is there any another session where Mr. President will joint?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): yohansyah, you are not the first person to ask! We would be honored to host President Obama. If such an opportunity comes up, we will alert you. You can join our newsletter by writing to conx@state.gov or you are invited to join us on Facebook at http://co-nx.state.gov. We also have a calendar of events on America.gov at
http://www.america.gov/multimedia/askamerica.html.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): If you are just joining us, welcome! We are coming to you from Washington, D.C. where it is a cloudy and rainy Spring morning. Mr. Stoltz will join us soon. We are taking your questions now.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): We will begin shortly, Mr. Stoltz has arrived and is getting logged in.
Karl Stoltz: Selamat siang. This is Karl Stoltz, and I look forward to our webchat today. How is the weather in Jakarta?
Comment [Denish]: Greetings! I join from Bandung.
Comment [windu]: hello there
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: Apa kabar?
Comment [yohansyah]: Khabar baik, I join from Balikpapan
Commen [gtuesty]: sapeda
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: Nice to have you joining us. I love Balikpapan.
Comment [windu]: hi im from medan
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: Hi, Windu. Medan is beautiful too.
Comment [Trishti]: Hi Mr. Stoltz...nice to have you here live chatting with us...
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: Great to be able to connect again with all my friends in Indonesia!
Question [Trishti]: The new U.S. policy toward Indonesia that was established at President Bush Administration said to be based on a realistic assessment of Indonesia's strategic importance in the region. What do you think will be the challenge for the President Obama's Administration policy towards Indonesia? Will it be to develop a measured policy that ignores alarmist fears about the demise of Indonesia and assists its leaders in developing and implementing sound economic reforms, nurturing respect for the rule of law, reducing government corruption, and establishing accountability and oversight of the military? As it was the main policy at President Bush time…
Answer [Karl Stoltz]: Let me start with Trishti's excellent question about the new U.S. policy towards Indonesia. Former President Bush outlined some goals of our policy and recognized Indonesia's strategic importance when he was President. Now, of course, we have a new President, one who has personal experience growing up in Indonesia. And Secretary Clinton has called for us to work together with Indonesia for a new Comprehensive Partnership. We do indeed hope to work together on issues like economic reform, rule of law, reducing corruption and trade barriers, making all parties accountable and honest. And, most important, overcoming cultural and media misperceptions so our relations with one another are healthy, full of mutual respect and able to grow further. Karl
Q [Denish]: Will there be any outcome from this Q & A that i can read later?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Yes, we will publish a transcript of today's session. See the links posted above. It usually takes about one business day to have the final transcript published.
Q [Derek Manangka]: Halo Mr Stoltz, you said Apa kabar... do u speak Bahasa?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Saya bicara BI tapi sudah lama tidak tinggal di Indonesia, jadi banyak suda lupa. Ma'af atas kesalahan saya.
Comment [yohansyah]: if you've ever been in BPN, hopefully I can meet you IN BPN someday..ha.
A [Karl Stoltz]: I would love to visit BPN again. Some day, insy'Allah.
Comment [ganesh]: people like obama can made a dream world but everyone should try to aware about own national interest
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, national interest is still very important, and Barack Obama also has to represent U.S. interests, even though I know he also loves and respects Indonesia.
Q [Susan]: How is the US trying to improve its relationship with Indonesia?
A [Karl Stoltz]: In many ways, and more to come. Our new Comprehensive Partnership aims to improve relations in educational, cultural, economic, scientific & technical and other ways.
Comment [Derek Manangka]: US Administrations failed to understand Indonesia. Policies made by Washington on Indonesia doesn’t support by genuine facts but mostly by misleading and misperception paradigm.
A [Karl Stoltz]: We will count on people like you to help overcome those misleading paradigms and misperceptions of the past. KS
Q [jefuri]: how is the progress of Indonesia and US after Obama choosen as president?
A [Karl Stoltz]: We have a long way to go but I think our relations are of to a great start since President Obama was elected.
Comment [Derek Manangka]: US invsters are dscouraged to invest more Indonesia because US government frequently issue travel warning on Indonesia
A [Karl Stoltz]: Fortunately, Indonesia has not had any bombings or other misfortunes lately, and I hope that continues. We have to issue travel advisories anywhere in the world when new risks emerge (we now have one about Mexico because of H1N1 flu). It is not a political decision but one of public safety. However, we are working hard now to encourage more Americans and investors to look to Indonesia.
Q [Ade Harahap]: I just want to know after President Barrack Obama bacame a President.will he improve that relation and star a new better mutual relation between Indonesia and USA..thank you.
A [Karl Stoltz]: I am hopeful that President Obama, who has personal experience in Indonesia, will help improve relations further.
Comment [Ade Harahap]: as far as I know it had been years the relation between Indonesia and US, were not very good.
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, Ade, we have had our ups and downs in relations, but the U.S. was the country that first pushed for Indonesia to become independent from Holland, and we have many years of good relations in the past too. But now we have an opportunity to make them even better in the future.
Q [yohansyah]: Karl, as we know togheter that presidential election will be coming up in Indonesia, how US administration response over this transition?
A [Karl Stoltz]: We believe the elections in Indonesia are for the people of Indonesia to decide, but we are very encouraged by the progress your country has made in holding many free, open and democratic elections in the past 10 years and look forward to working closely with whatever President gets elected in Indonesia this year.
I do not think there will be huge differences but Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has already signaled that the U.S. wants to be a more active partner with Indonesia and ASEAN, and that are exploring whether we can sign the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation with ASEAN soon. Secretary Clinton also plans to attend the ASEAN meetings this July, and President Obama hopes to come to the region in November for the APEC Leaders' meeting.
Comment [ruly]: I think travel warning to Indonesia is inapropriate, we Indonesians love to meet foreigner. You wont see any news of foreigner getting kidnaped around here. It's very political I think
A [Karl Stoltz]: Ruly, you are right, I cannot remember any cases of kindappings in Indonesia, but there were some bombings in the past. I hope there are no more. We even have to issue travel warnings, though, when there are natural disasters like cyclones or earthquakes. They are not designed to keep people from visiting, just to make sure they now about current conditions.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): If you are just joining us, welcome! Karl Stoltz of the U.S. State Department is taking your questions now.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: i join from jakarta
Q [yoes.kenawas]: How does U.S view Indonesia role in building the regional cooperation (ASEAN), and how this affect U.S foreign policy
A [Karl Stoltz]: We recognize that Indonesia plays a very impotant role in the region, now more than ever, and we hope to work closely with your country on goals that benefit the entire region. For example, protecting the environment, fighting piracy, and enhancing the flow of trade.
Q [windu]: will president Obama be visiting Indonesia this year?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Insy'Allah, he will. He plans to be in the region in November and we are hoping he will be able to balik kampung when he is in the region.
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Welcome Rudi. If you are just joining us and you would like to introduce yourself, please do so. My name is Mark, I work here in Washington, D.C. for the State Department. I work on the CO.NX webchat program. You can learn more about our webchats by writing to conx@state.gov or you are invited to join us on Facebook at http://co-nx.state.gov. We also have a calendar of events on America.gov at http://www.america.gov/multimedia/askamerica.html.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): From Lesmana Wijaya in Facebook: I hope we all can be unity in peace and working together for all mankind and to make the better world for our next generation.
Q [Trishti]: So, what is the main goal of America's democratic project in whole especialy with Indonesia (referring to President Obama's administration)?
A [Karl Stoltz]: America has many goals but one we believe in strongly is helping nations build their own democratic institutions, because democratic countries rarely experience famines or start wars; when governments listen to their people, their first priority is usually to make their countries more prosperous, a goal we all share.
Comment [yohansyah]: as improvement from Obama administration, any upcoming chance to rectify Indonesian foreign loan/debt, we think so far we never can maximise our prosperity building if we still have obligation to pay.
A [Karl Stoltz]: The U.S. Government is working closely with Indoensia and international financial institutions to address these issues, and there have been many initiatives in recent years to help developing countries ease their foreign debt burden.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): From Prasetianto W Mangkusubroto (Universitas Indonesia) in Facebook: I hope we all can be unity in peace and working together for all mankind and to make the better world for our next generation.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: my name is Rudi Rusdiah from Association of community Internet Center and Computer Vendor Association
Q [Derek Manangka]: I am aware the US (Bush) Administration has supported Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in winning the 2004 President election. Is Obama administration providing similar support to the similar person?
A [Karl Stoltz]: It is up to the people of Indoneisa, not America, to decide who their next President will be. We will work with and support whomever you elect.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): From Zulkifli Amma in Facebook: " FROM E PLURIBUS UNUM TOGETHER BHINEKA TUNGGAL IKA WITH LOVE AND PEACE "
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: about pwl...why america put indonesia on pwl based on % of piracy not the actual dollar figure of piracy. US dollar software piracy figure is 20 times higher than in Indonesia
A [Karl Stoltz]: The Priority Watch List is based on many factors, not just dollar figures but also the success of eforts by other countries to fight intellectial piracy. You are right, Rudi, it is also a problem in the U.S. But the people who suffer the most from intellectual piracy are the artists, musicians, film-makers and writers in countries with this problem. If they cannot earn money from their creativity, they stop making new recordings, films and books, and we all suffer from not being able to enjoy their talents.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): From Holi Bina Wijaya in Facebook: Good idea to encourage the relation of people to people. Let make an equal position of dialog.
Q [Derek Manangka]: Since 1999 we adopt American politcal system, in terms of democracy and President direct election. But the results are not making Indonesia in progress. What’s wrong with the system>
A [Karl Stoltz]: Winston Churchill once said that democracy is the worst political system -- except for all the others. Democracy has many flaws, and it is not perfect in America either. But it is the one system that allows the people to have a strong voice in their future, and fix things that are wrong by electing leaders who address them. Good luck, Derek, and remember that it is not how far you have to go, but how far you have already come that matters most!
Q [Heru Kurniadi]: Hi Mr. Stoltz how are you?, its great opportunity to talk about relationship between indonesia-US, i am a representative for american company here in indonesia doing the exchange visitor program for student under J1 visa program and i am glad that its been a good feedback from US employer to have them there to learn american experience, and how do you think about that program?, related to a factor of educational program here in indonesia and in US?, thank you
A [Karl Stoltz]: Hi, Heru. I'm good. Nice to talk to you, I love this chance to chat too. That sounds like a great program you are involved in. I'd love to learn more about it.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): From Anna Mariana Christiansen in Facebook: I adore Obama so much..he is the greaters black american!! Hopefully the relation of two countries would be getting stronger then ever: -) America used to be my second country as my home...but no matter what America still inside me I like the country and the people too as I like my own country and people...INDONESIA.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: for music, video price different is small now..more people buy original not pirated
A [Karl Stoltz]: I am very glad to hear that. When I was there it was much cheaper to buy the pirated DVDs.
Comment [yohansyah]: ha.ha pirated dvd's
Q [Derek Manangka]: If Prabowo Subianto be elected of Indonesia President in Juky or October 2004, President Obama is till visiting Indonesia?
A [Karl Stoltz]: It is very hard to predict the future, both for elections and for Presidential visits. If I could predict the future, I would win a lot of football bets : -)
Q [windu]: Mr Stoltz, will it be easier for indonesian students to apply visa and even greencard to study in US, after obama's election?
A [Karl Stoltz]: I do not think the election has anything to do with this but yes, we are working hard to make it easier for Indonesian students to apply for visas to study in the U.S. Greencards are another matter.
Comment [Derek Manangka]: Hzahaha a very smart and diplomatic answer. I like it
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: Terima kasih!
Q [Heru Kurniadi]: hi my name is Heru Kurniadi, so this chat is all about politic?, how about social life and any other thing?, i am intrested to ask mr. stoltz about a student exchange visitor from indonesia to US are American goverment have a program to share a cultural and educational subject to world wide especialy to Indonesia?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Heru, this chat is about anything you want it to be. Yes, we ae wokring hard to increase the number of programs where we have cultural and educational exchanges, and to bring more Americans to Indonesia as well as more Indonesians to America. Thank you for your question!
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: for software the price is still very high MsOffice is $300 same in Indonesia as in USA, compared to hamburger theory the price of bigmac in Indonesia is cheaper than in US
A [Karl Stoltz]: I know MS Office is still sangat mahal, and it is usually the same around the world (not cheap here either). But there is a lot of shareware these days that is much less expensive and does not violate intellectual property rights.
Q [Trishti]: What will be President Obama's and his administration program regarding the United States-Indonesia Bilateral Defense?
A [Karl Stoltz]: The U.S. is working with Indonesia and with U.S. Congress to find ways we can continue and increase our defense cooperation. One way under discussion is whether Indonesia might send more peacekeepers to areas of conflict around the world.
Q [Christ Lisangan]: It is already been known that US under former president Bush become one of the most arrogant country in the earth, what is your opinion regarding this matter after President Obama took office?
A [Karl Stoltz]: There was a widespread opinion in many countries that the U.S. behaved in some arrogant ways in the past. President Obama and Secretary Clinton have both stressed that the new Administration will do a lot more listening, not lecturing. It is up to you to decide whether things have changed. I'd like to know what you think about the change in tone so far.
Q [pico]: Hi mr Stoltz.. can you brief me about the idea of "a new beginning for Indonesia and US relations". What's in US Dept of State agenda on Indonesia and SEA?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Hi, Pico. Our agenda for Indonesia and SE Asia is to take our already good relationship and make it better, in ways that benefit all countries involved.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: ya open office is now beginning to be popular in Indonesia so is Linux, so there is a lot of effort including raid by police still USTR put us on PWL
A [Karl Stoltz]: I am glad to hear things are improving. If they continue tio improve, maybe next year Indonesia will no longer be on PWL.
Q [guesty]: the high price doesn't justify stealing the software
A [Karl Stoltz]: I agree. Someone worked hard to create the software, and we all benefit only if we pay the official price.
Q [Derek Manangka]: Do you subscribe the opinion that American influence in Indonesia is decresing?
A [Karl Stoltz]: I am not in Indonesia so I do not know, Derek. What do you think?
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: Hi everyone, can I join this dicussion?
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Yes anytime Ardi.
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: May I asked who is moderating this forum and from where?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): Hello! I'm Mark, I am with the State Department and I am here in Washington D.C. Tim is our second moderator here in Washington and we are joined by Mr. Stoltz who is also in Washington, D.C.
Q [darus salam]: will dept of us immigration change their policies in accepting Indonesian people, who will enter USA, toward more friendly policies?
A [Karl Stoltz]: We need to do a better job of welcoming people at our borders. It is a high priority of the Obama Administration.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: yes... but more people buy original since the price of original is not expensive anymore...but usually difficult to find new release movie... so this is still problem.. pirated copy seems to be faster entering the market globally
A [Karl Stoltz]: Some times the best things are worth waiting for!
Q [guesty]: What is PWL?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): PWL is the USTR's Priority Watch List status
Q [StephanieTheng]: Indonesia's touted as an "anthropologist's paradise", would we see more Americans venturing to Indonesia in coming years, that would offset the perception of Indonesia as a country full of terrorists?
A [Karl Stoltz]: It takes time to change perceptions but I don't think most Americans see Indonesia as a country full of terrorists. The biggest problem is that most Americans are not aware of Indonesia at all. Working with the Indonesian Embassy here, we can help improve Americans' awareness and understanding of the beauty of Indonesia -- its environment, its people, its diversity, its culture -- and then more Americans will visit than ever before.
Q [Rudi Rusdiah]: the questions why PWL status
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Here's an article on the PWL Rudi.
http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20090430-720395.html
Comment [guesty]: and the subtitles are ridiculous!
Q [Derek Manangka]: Yes Karl I thing it is...there more students going to China (for study) instead of US...
A [Karl Stoltz]: I do not know how many Indonesians go to study in China but last year we have 7,692 in America. We would love to have more attend our universities. And that is one of the main goals of our new Comprehensive PArtnership.
Comment [ardi sutedja k.]: Ok and hello to the colleagues in the state department in DC. I am Ardi Sutedja K. and I am based in Jakarta!
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): We're glad you're online with us today Ardi. See the links above to join us in future online chats through CO.NX.
Q [Heru Kurniadi 2]: thank you mr stoltz, how was washington this day?, i am hoping that one day we have more American here in Indonesia to share the knowledge about how we develop, and one more thing how do you thing about the hospitality industry in both country and also the tourism industry, thank you so much hope Indonesia-USA will be a great fellow. God Bless peace on earth.
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Heru, Washington is rainy today but we've had a good year. Thank you for your kind words. I think the tourism industry in both countries has been through a lot in the past decade, but both countries have wonderful places to visit and I hope we can increase the flow of tourists in both directions.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: you are right even in US piracy is more than 20% and is 20 times at $8 millions in Indonesia is $400K, but if the price is less piracy can be less... supply demand theory
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, Rudi, supply demand theory is important but so is enforcement. I hope next year Indonesia can not only be off PWL but even WL.
Comment [ruly]: I think software price should equivalent to people's earning. Americans can buy Windows for about 2 days earning, while Indonesia is a month! It's not fair, no wonder piracy is very hard to eliminate.
A [Karl Stoltz]: It would be nice if it worked that way, Ruly, but then people would just go to low-wage countries to buy all their software! I think the best solution is to develop ways to make computer technology more affordable for moe people, and there are people working hard on that right now.
Q [christine rettob]: when m Presiden coming to indonesia...???
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Christine: We don't know for sure, but perhaps in November....
Q [Rio]: What do you perceive about Islam and Indonesian muslim in general?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Rio: I have lived in Indonesia and Malaysia so I have a lot of esteem and respect for Islam and many Muslim friends. And I think Indonesia is a model for Muslims around the world -- a country that respects all faiths and cultures and a successful democracy. We would have fewer problems in other parts of the world if all countries were like Indonesia.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: pwl is priority watch list this year status last year is better at WL watch list
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: sorry from wL last year to PWL this year
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: I heard Steve Ballmer is coming to Jakarta
A [Karl Stoltz]: I have not heard that, but I am not surprised. Many people are discovering Indonesia these days!
Comment [ardi sutedja k.]: Karl, just to comment on your view on affordability, idealistic it should be that way, but I must that has been the topic of discussion for the decade and it is still going in various ICT4D forum worldwide!
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Ardi: This will have to be my last comment on IPR so I can address other issues too. I agree progress is not as fast in this area as we would like, but freeware and shareware did not exist in their current forms ten years ago. Wait five years and I think this problem may be much easier.
Q [Christ Lisangan]: Mr. Stoltz, Does US still put Indonesia under travel warning?
A [Karl Stoltz]: No, Indonesia is not under any travel warning right now. And I hope it stays that way
Q [Rudi Rusdiah]: how is the swine flu
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): gradual easing of concerns over swine flu. Here's the latest from the New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/06/health/06flu.html?ref=world
Q [windu]: do you think that obama can handle the big burden on his shoulder to fix the economic climate in the united states by observing the first 100 days of Obama's rule?
A [Karl Stoltz]: President Obama has made a lot of progress on the economic crisis, Windu, but much work remains. It may be too early to tell after 100 days how things are going but some trends are becoming positive after many months of bad news. I hope the recovery is fast, since it affects people everywhere.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): For anyone interesting in following future chats please visit our Facebook site at http://co-nx.state.gov or our latest Twitter feed at http://www.twitter.com/conx. Thank you.
Comment [navy]: hello
Q [yohansyah]: should we have a kind of personal things about our country, any chance to us to contat or comminacate directly and at any time with Mr. president??.
A [Karl Stoltz]: It is very hard for anyone to communicate directly with President Obama, Yohansyah, because he is so busy. Same for Americans. But the White House website (www.whitehouse.gov) has a place where you can send a message to him.
Comment [windu]: I hope so Karl
Q [Trishti]: Obama has promised maintaining a mutual respect with the Muslim world but the position that the US shows when it attacks Pakistan and Afghanistan means it has not changed, this provocated about a hundred protestors from a hard-line Muslim group rallied outside the US embassy in Jakarta on Friday (February 2009) and criticizing US President Barack Obama over suspected US missile strikes in Pakistan (Reported by Reuters), what is your opinion, Mr. Stoltz?
A [Karl Stoltz]: President Obama inherited a lot of problems around the world, Trishti, and they did not go away just because we had an election. He is committed to ending violence in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and building up democracy there so the people in those countries will be able to enjoy the peace and democracy that people in Indonesia now enjoy too
Q [Rudi Rusdiah]: obama still use blackberry? it is so popular in Indonesia because of Obama
A [Karl Stoltz]: President Obama, I am told, still has a Blackberry, but I do not know his email address : -)
Q [navy]: hmm, maybe Obama President visit to indonesia?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Navy: Yes, iny'Allah, he will visit soon. Thanks.
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: What will be the other issues pertinent for discussion today? Sorry for asking.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): No problem Ardi. Feel free to ask questions on any topic.
Q [Rudi Rusdiah]: hong kong is paranoid by put a whole hotel on quanrantine... how in American airports
A [Karl Stoltz]: Things are a bit calmer now but many fears about H1N1 continue around the world. Passengers who have fever are carefully screened so they cannot infect others. But Indonesia has gone through this during SARS and Avian Influenza so I think people in Asia are more calm about H1N! than people in other parts of the world.
Comment [ardi sutedja k.]: Thank Tim, I thought that there was a confinement of topics.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Not at all...it just depends on how much time Mr. Stoltz has to answer them all.: )
Q [guesty]: Its cheaper to go to China, and fashionable right now
A [Karl Stoltz]: Students who want to study in China should do so; I am sure it is cheaper for some schools there. But a student once told me that the only place you can go to get a Harvard education is at Harvard, so I hope Indonesian students who want to best possible education for their future will still consider studying in America too.
Q [Roger Gracie]: Is there any chance for us to waive USA visa, like singaporeans?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Visa waivers to the US are very rare, and only given in cases where there are almost no cases of anyone overstaying their visa. Unfortunately, Indonesia has had examples of people trying to work illegally or stay in the U.S. after their visa expires, just like many other countries around the world.
Q [navy]: hmm, what topic about this ? i new on here...
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Welcome Navy...we've had questions ranging from visas to piracy to President Obama possibly visiting Indonesia in November.
Q [Adhi Pratama]: Karl, one question, how're the US views about the Indo. intl politics decision?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Adhi, can you be a bit more specific? Which international political decision? Thank you.
Comment [Mario Masaya2]: Hello!!
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Hi Mario...welcome to the chat!
Q [Adhi Pratama]: Karl, can you tells us what's the meaning of Community College. Do the community paid some fees to keep the College running, or any explanations?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Adhi: A great question! Community colleges in America are schools that exist in local communities. Some are private and some are funded by local governments or states, not usually by the community. But they are usually much less expensive than other U.S. universities. They often give two-year Associate degrees rather than four-year Bachelor's degrees, and most do not have post-graduate programs. But they are a great way for Indonesian students to experience education in America -- they are affordable, usually located in cities and easy-to-access communities, and still give great educations! Many students go to Community Colleges for two years and then transfer to major universirties to study further.
Q [Adhi Pratama]: Well...Indonesia decides to give supports to the palestine to create a diplomatic mission, and chose to make no diplomatic affairs with Israel, that's the example
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Adhi: Thanks. President Obama is committed to a two-state solution in the Middle East, so both the Palestinians and Israelis can live in their own country in peace with all their neighbors. As you know, it is hard to reach that goal, but he is working hard to achieve it. We believe it is important to have relations with both Israel and the Palestinians, but we respect the right of other countries like Indonesia to make their own choices.
Comment [Rudi Rusdiah]: interesting Obama remarks on many asian student in American college and also the standard of american college during the first week of swine flu outbreak
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, Rudi, we have over 282,000 students in the U.S. from Asia right now, with China and India leading the way. And we feel we offer the best educational experiences in the world. Over half of the foreign students in America come from Asia. Indonesia is in the Top 20 (16th overall) but we'd love to see it move up into the Top Ten.
Q [Mario Masaya 2]: Can i know your background people?
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Sure Mario. Our guest today is Mr. Karl Stoltz and he is the director of public diplomacy in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs in the U.S. State Department. My name is Tim Receveur and I am a Foreign Affairs Officer at the U.S. State Department and moderator for this chat.
Q [Mario Masaya 2]: i think in that case, Indonesia's position in siding to Palestinian and has no diplomatic tie with Israel is because Indonesia want to give some kind like "present" to Israel which is recognition, if there is solution to Israel-Palestina conflict
A [Karl Stoltz]: That would be a wonderful development! I hope it is possible for Indonesia to give that "present" soon!
Q [Rudi Rusdiah]: how long is this chat sessions?
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Usually they last one hour. Mr. Stoltz wants to answer as many questions as possible so he is staying online for longer.
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: oh i see thank you Tim
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: I realized that the fees are maybe not affordable for me, so i searched some infos about the comm.college in US
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, and if you need more help to find affordable fees to study in America, please contact AMINEF in Jakarta. They have student information and can help place you in the school that is best for you -- both in terms of education and in terms of cost
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: it depends on how the conflict settlement
Comment [Karl Stoltz]: True!
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: When I visited US in last June-July 2008 (w/ my friend from State Dept., Mr George A Santulli), I was so inspired by the Indonesian Students who study some majors there...
A [Karl Stoltz]: Thanks, Adhi. I know George Santulli too. Please send him my best regards.
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: by the way, i haven't introduce myself, i'm mario, a student from Parahyangan Catholic University, Indonesia
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Thanks Mario...we're glad you could join us today.
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: Dear Tim, how can I be informed on the topics of discussion in advance?
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): You can become a Fan of our Facebook site at http://co-nx.state.gov or join our latest Twitter feed at http://www.twitter.com/conx for upcoming chats. Thank you.
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: Ok, I have one questions related to the "Digital Freedom Initiative" which was initiated by them former Vice President Al Gore, where does President Obama stand on this now?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Ardi: I have to admit you stumped me. I do not know the asnwer to your question but if you can leave your email address with the moderator I will send you an answer later
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: you are welcome Tim
Q [Mario Masaya 2]: So what do you think about Indonesian election last april karl?
A [Karl Stoltz]: I am excited about every election in Indonesia, since the results are always unpredictable. Much better than elections before I was there, when everyone knew the winners in advance!
Q [Adhi Pratama]: Karl, can you give us the ratios between the Indonesia's Legal Workers and the Indonesia's Illegal Workers?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Adhi: We don't know the number of illegal workers, since we only find out about visa overstayers or those who work on the wrong visa when they are caught. Most Indonesians do not violate their visa rules, but those who do make it harder for everyone else.
Q [yohansyah]: There a lot of US investment company operating in indonesia, does US goverment remain controlling their activity to stick FCPA policy??, as we know that in indonesia is still very suscetible to bribery??
A [Karl Stoltz]: U.S. companies around the world must avoid using bribery or other forms of corruption under the FCPA, and they are punished if they do so. The more Indonesia can successfully tackle corruption issues (and your country has made a lot of progress in recent years), the more U.S. companies will invest in Indonesia, because they will know it is safe to do so without needing to give bribes.
Q [ardi sutedja k.]: Dear Karl and thanks. By the way Tim, how do I communicate privately in this chat session?
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Feel free to e-mail conx@state.gov and we can hopefully get you an answer.
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: Ok then Karl, thank you so much. BTW, i forgot to introduce myself, I'm Adhi Pratama, 11th Grade Students, from Bali, Indonesia
A [Karl Stoltz]: Hi, Adhi. Good luck with your studies! You have great English, and I hope in a few years you will get a chance to study in America! I love Bali!
Comment [viennita]: hello all.. I'm Mira, from Jakarta... nice to meet u all.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Thank you for joining us today Mira.
Q [Mario Masaya 2]: by the way, when i visited New York last couple of months, i met many chinese cannot speak english at all. They sold food, even when i ordered rice or eggs, they don't understand. how can those people be in US?
A [Karl Stoltz]: There is no requirement to speak English to live in America, but it helps you get better jobs than selling rice or eggs. Some communities like Chinese and people from Central and South America are large in the U.S., so people coming here with relatives can speak their own language and do OK, but the ones who speak English are the ones who go on to study and get the best jobs.
Q [Adhi Pratama]: One question Karl, recently, a research revealed that facebook can reduce the performance of the employees...how're the US company responses about this research, and how's your office responses (State Dept.), do you have some rules? maybe like, do not access Facebook during the working hours of anything else?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Well, I am trying to encourage people I work with to use Facebook and social networks more often so we can have great conversations with people in other countries, like we're doing now. But like all things, it has to be done in moderation. Facebook, computer games, long phone calls, all can distract someone in the office. I find the best way to handle this is to give people specific goals; how they spend their time is then up to them, as long as they get their work done on time.
Q [Trisht]i: Suspicion of the United States meddling in Indonesia's domestic affairs still undermine this relationship. Do you think it will ever go away? I personally hope that this will go away and do not affect the relations between indonesia and the US (present and future).
A [Karl Stoltz]: I don't think suspicion will ever go away completely, but if we get rid of the sources of suspicion, over time people come to realize that our two nations are working together for the same goals, rather than meddling in each other's politics. We also had this problem in America ten years ago when an Indonesian was found to be giving illegal campaign funding to one party, so it is an issue in both directions.
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: So.no specific rules?, like in my school. we must not using facebook during the study hours, and the school blocked the facebook sites during the study hours too
A [Karl Stoltz]: I think schools are different than offices in many ways. In my son's school, kids are not allowed to have cellphones or any electronic device to distract them from their studies. I think that is a good idea in general, as long as they don't ban it entiely.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Adhi just to follow-up on your Facebook question. My office uses it as a major tool for outreach. It drives most of what we do with the CO.NX program and online discussions.
Comment [Mutho Kuntjoro]: Hi Karl...
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: OK Tim..thanks, it's clear enough
Q [windu]: when there was a bombing in indonesia, US declare a travel warning for Indonesia, now while there is no more bombing here, do United States government recommends their people to visit Indonesia?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, we have to ract to a serious incident like a bombing that kills many people or a natural disaster, but after 30 days the travel caution usually expires. Right now there are no warnings for Americans to not visit Indonesia -- we encourage it!
Comment [pico]: Glad to see so many bright fellow Indonesian here... even better, a junior from Parahyangan.. great event! : )
A [Karl Stoltz]: Parahayangan rocks! I have been there -- a great university!
Comment [Fenica 2]: hi all
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Hi Fenica...thank you for joining the chat.
Q [ruly]: what about prisoners in Guantanamo
A [Karl Stoltz]: On the second day he was in the White House, President Obama announced we would close the prison camp in Guantanamo. We are working to try or transfer all the prisoners held there now.
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: thanks!
Comment [pico]: thank you : )
Comment [Fenica 2]: hi.
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: When i went there, i was asked by the police officers in airport, why i come, what is my father's job etc and i found several people who cannot speak english are departed to their own country
A [Karl Stoltz]: I get asked those questions at the airport too. It is a way to test why someone is coming, and make sure what they said in their visa application is true. Some who cannot speak English have trouble at the border, but many people already in America who cannot speak Englsh came years ago with their relatives and do not need to cross the border
Comment [viennita]: if i may ask.. because many people here are not clear on how to interpret what is actually right and what is wrong... many people have become thrilled with the hype that Mr. Obama, who notably has a connection to Indonesia in some ways. so, what is it that the Indonesian young people are to expect from the Indonesian - US relations?
A [Karl Stoltz]: People need to study the issues and look beyond the hype, though it is understandable why so many are thrilled. The real proof of whether President Obama will help improve Indonesian-US relations will come with time, and you will be the judges of that.
Q [Trishti]: Some eople said that because of our vast differences, relations between Indonesia and the United States at best can be cordial but never warm. Do you agree?
A [Karl Stoltz]: OK, I have to leave at 9: 45 am (Washington time) for a meeting, so I can only take a few more questions.
Q [Fenica]: Mr. Stoltz,I would like to raise a question. How important Indonesia is for the U.S, beside the terrorist action which is seems to be the biggest concern for the U.S?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Indoensia is very important for the U.S., and terrorism is not a major issue in our relationship these days. Indonesia is the world's third largest democracy, home to some of the world's richest biodiversity, the economic and political leader of Southeast Asia, and a member of the G-20 group of nations that address global issues. We have a lot to share, and many common goals. That's why we are so interested in building an even stronger relationship in the future.
Comment [ruly]: I hope there will be another discussion like this
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Hi Ruly. We have discussion going on all the time on a wide range of topics. Visit our Facebook site at
Q [yohansyah]: can we have the script of these discussion??
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): We will definitely have a transcript and it will be sent out tomorrow. It will be posted on http://co-nx.state.gov in Facebook and our Twitter feed @ http://www.twitter.com/conx. Thank you.
Q [ayu pertiwi]: Hello, what is US citizen prefer to next Indonesian President?
A [Karl Stoltz]: I cannot answer for all US citizens, only myself. I hope the next Indonesian President is someone who puts the interests of the Indonesian people first, and helps continue Indonesia's path forward as a prosperous, tolerant, peaceful and democratic nation. That is why many Americans voted for Barack Obama, I think, and I hope Indonesians will all vote in their elections for the person who they think best meets their own personal goals.
Comment [ardi sutedja k.]: Karl and Tim, by the way, some of us US alumni actually had a friendship site in Facebook. Please do join us at "Forum Persahabatan Indonesia - Amerika". This site was initiated by Mr. Luluk Sumiarso, an expert staff with our Mines and Energy Ministry.
A [Karl Stoltz]: Thank you, Ardi and Luluk, for doing this. I will certainly visit that site.
Comment [ruly]: maybe with live video
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): We can also do live video.
Comment [ardi sutedja k.]: yes, that is good! I think we can all learn something from this chat technology to bridge our differences!
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): We completely agree thanks Ardi.
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: this is really interesting, People-people interactions like this will strengthen our relationship.
Q [windu]: Karl If you were the president of United States what would you do first to fix the economic condition in United States especially n economic global condition generally?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Wow. Well, since I was born in Japan, under US law I cannot be President, which is probably a good thing because I am not very good handling my own finances much less th country's. But I would probably try to do the same thing President Obama is doing now -- clean up that abuses and corruption that helped create the current mess, and make sure that we spend more helping the people who need help most. And education -- I think we all need to make it easier and more affordable for people to get the education they want
Q [Mario Masaya 2]: Do you think so Karl?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Yes, Mario, I agree with you 100%.
Q [Adhi Pratama]: BTW, maybe my question is a-lil-bit silly but, Which program is better according to you Karl? Nancy Grace or World News with Charles Gibson?
A [Karl Stoltz]: Dear Adhi: Not silly, but I have to admit I do not get to see either program very often here in America.
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: ok then...
Q [Fenica]: what makes democracy become a very important issue for the U.S, beside the need of world peace will be achieved easier?
A [Karl Stoltz]: The Indian economist Amartya Sen once wrote that nations that are democracies do not have famines or mass suffering, because the public put pressure on governments to fix problems before they become crises. That's why I think democracy, for all its flaws, is the best hope for the future.
Comment [ayu pertiwi]: Hopefully for next discussion, we can invite US common people to join ......., thanks
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): That's a very good idea Ayu. Send us an e-mail at conx@state.gov with any ideas you have.
Comment [Adhi Pratama]: I must do my Computer Homework, so..a big thanks to you, Mr. Karl Stoltz, really nice to talk with you...Tim the moderator, thanks to moderate the conversation...all of you guys who joined this room thank you so much...Terima Kasih dan Selamat Malam...
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: I think Indonesia is very important for United States (and vis versa) because Indonesia is a muslim role model. Indonesia is also represent third world countries and muslim countries. We are a place where democracy and Muslim run together and live side by side.
A [Karl Stoltz]: OK, friends, I have to sign off now to go to a meeting at the State Department. I have really enjoyed this chat today and hope I can participate again soon. I also agree with others that it would be great to do one with video or webchats with ordinary American citizens too. Salam hangat to everyone in Indonesian...sampai ketemu lagi! Karl
Comment [Fenica]: Thank you so much for Mr. Stoltz, and Tim for making an effective way to understand more about U.S
Comment [ruly]: sampai ketemu lagi Karl
Comment [ayu pertiwi]: Terima kasih semua, salam...
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: see ya karl!
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Thanks to you all for participating with us today and for your excellent questions. Sorry if we could get to all the questions.
Comment [windu]: nice to do live chatting with you Karl
Comment [Mario Masaya 2]: Thanks to you Tim!
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): The webchat is now closed...thank again!
(end transcript)
