The United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, has praised Indonesia following the suspension from the Indonesian cabinet of the security Minister and former military chief, General Wiranto.

Mr Annan said the Indonesian government had demonstrated its determination to put those responsible for atrocities in East Timor on trial -- and if it did this, it would make Indonesia stronger.

Mr Annan, who was speaking during a visit to Singapore, said the United Nations would only set up its own tribunal if it became clear that Indonesia was not going to act.

Earlier the Indonesian armed forces backed the decision of President Abdurrahman Wahid to suspend General Wiranto.

The General himself said he was disappointed but accepted the decision.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service