Was it right to 'assist' East Timor? (1 Viewer)

[Not-That-Bright]

Was it right to assist East Timor to become an independant nation?

I feel that it was... as all people should have a right to self determination
However;
- One of the main reasons for them wishing to become independant was because they felt they weren't getting a fair share of the profit from their lands. Australia is also depriving them from what the international court claims they deserve.

- What about Aceh? The same situation is happening there.. why aren't we assisting.. Yes there was a humanitarian crisis in East Timor, however the situations are FAIRLY similar.

- What right do we have to take the sovereign land of indonesia and separate it?

Just wondering what peoples thoughts are..

 

[jumb]

- What right do we have to take the sovereign land of indonesia and separate it?

We have more money and power. I know it sucks, but such is life.

 

[Riewe]

And what right did indonesia have when it took Timor?

 

[...]

thats like asking

why are we sending our troops to Iraq

 

[jumb]

thats like asking

why are we sending our troops to Iraq

To kill some bitches.

 

[Riewe]

And to help the US spread freedom and democracy to the world. And to also allow quick invasion routes into Syria and Iran.

 

[Bone577]

I think one of the important facts of the Timor issue is that Australia and the US were supporting Suharto for 40 or so years, during which he was no less of a criminal (in fact these were the periods of his worst crimes) to Australias/Americas full knowledge. US officals went so far as to call the dictator "our kind of guy".

It is only recently that we felt any need to oppose such tyranny, and for what reasons was Suharto opposed? The US eventually opposed due to international pressure, Australia was quicker, though I can't be sure since I haven't read up enough, I would say it was for the substantial profits that could be made in the Timor gap.

I think that is very telling of the whole issue.