Indonesian Government Officials Discuss Climate Change in Indonesia Following Cancun Global Climate Change Summit

Indonesia Defends itself against Environmentalist claims

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following was released today by the American Indonesia Chamber of Commerce:

WHAT: "Climate Change and Indonesia:  A Developing Country's View," a discussion presented by the American Indonesian Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Indonesian Embassy.

WHY: After years of being accused of deforestation by environmental groups like Greenpeace, there is growing backlash brewing in Indonesia as government officials, scientists and civic leaders express anger at the environmental group and say that its accusations are baseless.  Indonesia is the home of one of the largest natural forests in the world and has made, in the government's view, a strong environmental commitment that exceeds global standards. Despite this, NGOs like Greenpeace are demanding more. Indonesian government officials will address important global issues such as climate change, environmental sustainability and poverty, and participate in an interactive Q&A with attendees.

WHO:

• Agus Purnomo, Special Advisor to Indonesian President Yudhoyono on Climate Change and Head Secretariat, National Council on Climate Change
• Dino Patti Djalal, Indonesian Ambassador to the United States
• Wayne Forrest, President of the American Indonesia Chamber of Commerce

WHEN:  December 10, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET

On-site registration begins at 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: National Press Club

529 14th Street Northwest

Washington D.C., DC 20045

Interviews available before or after the event, by request.

About American Indonesia Chamber of Commerce

The American Indonesian Chamber of Commerce (AICC) was established in 1949 before Indonesia received its full sovereignty from the Netherlands. A private membership organization headquartered in New York, AICC was the first US organization to openly lobby for Indonesia's independence. Its members include major investors who have contributed greatly to Indonesia's economic development as well as small companies who are the lifeline in the US for Indonesia's exports.

CONTACT: Naomi Bata, +1-312-596-3332, [email protected]

SOURCE American Indonesia Chamber of Commerce