Bad timing for Wahid visit

It’s "bad timing" for Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid to be visiting the country today since ousted President Joseph Estrada has just been arraigned at the Sandiganbayan.

A source at the Department of Foreign Affairs told The STAR yesterday government officials are in a dilemma as to how the Arroyo administration would tackle Wahid’s visit.

Being the world’s most populous Muslim country, Indonesia is important to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, the source added.

During his visit, Wahid may discuss with President Arroyo the ceasefire signed in Libya last week between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Wahid plans a "social visit" today that includes a courtesy call on Mrs. Arroyo, the Indonesian Embassy said yesterday.

Presidential Spokesman Rigoberto Tiglao told reporters Mrs. Arroyo will host a "working luncheon" for Wahid at Malacañang at 11:30 a.m., along with his wife and the Indonesian ambassador. – Aurea Calica, Marichu Villanueva