AUSTRALIA has joined the chorus of dismay over Indonesia's imminent expulsion of terrorism expert Sidney Jones, describing the work done by the International Crisis Group's Jakarta director as of great importance.
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,9740298%255E2703,00.html
"The Australian Government recognises the valuable work undertaken in Indonesia by the ICG," an embassy spokeswoman said. "The Australian embassy has registered with Indonesian officials the importance we attach to ICG's work in Indonesia."

Ms Jones has been responsible for at least 15 reports on Indonesia, including work on the reach and structure of terrorist organisation Jemaah Islamiah. She and her colleague, Australian Francesa Lawe-Davies, were ordered on Tuesday to leave Indonesia immediately.

The move is backed by Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, who told a group of Australian editors on Wednesday that Jakarta had the right to protect itself from external threats.