Jakarta,     - The Japanese and United States governments Thursday extended condolences on the demise of former Indonesian president Abdurrahman Wahid popularly known as Gus Dur.

    "Former president Abdurrahman Wahid was a great statesman. He encouraged reforms in all fields in Indonesia and played a role in  enhancing friendship between Japan and Indonesia," Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said.

    On behalf of the Japanese government and people, Hatoyama highly appreciated Gus Dur's remarkable services, the Japanese Embassy in Jakarta said in a press statement. 

    Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada meanwhile said Japan would always remember Gur Dur's remarkable services in encouraging reforms in the political, educational, social and cultural fields in Indonesia.

    In a press statement issued on Thursday, US Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron R Hume said Indonesia had lost an inspirative leader and humanitarian fighter.

    "Gus Dur had many admirers in the US. He will always be remembered for his tolerance, respect for human rights and strong commitment to democracy," Hume said.

    Gus Dur died during medication at Cipto Mangunkusumo hospital in Jakarta on Wednesday after suffering from complications caused by heart disease, kidney disorders and diabetes for years. He was 69.

    Born in Jombang on August 4, 1940, he is survived by his wife and four daughters.

    He served as the country`s fourth president from October 20, 1999 to August 24, 2001.

 

-Antara, 1 January 2010