A large number of East Timorese were forced to abandon their homes and belongings and flee from threat and violence. Although the tentative cease-fire signed between the warring parties is encouraging, the negotiation between Indonesia and Portugal to arrange a vote on autonomy is yet to bear fruit in order to achieve a peaceful solution. In Sri Lanka, ethnic conflicts and civil war continue with heavy human toll. In India, political uncertainty threatens democratic principles. Malaysia has been witnessing an unprecedented political turmoil.
Territorial disputes create havoc and threaten peace and stability in different countries.
A frantic race towards nuclear conflagration has started in south Asia. East Asia also has been on the brink of a nuclear threat. The emerging balance of power configurations and strategic security alliances bring anxiety and uneasiness to the minds of East Asian people. Small Arms and light weapons intensify ethnic and communal conflicts in South East Asia. As we recognise the fact that these hostilities and disdainful disunities are marring and maiming the fullness of life in Asia, it is with a deep sense of pastoral responsibility, we the officers of the Christian Conference of Asia express our deepest concern for the people all over Asia and call upon Christians all over the world to uphold the people of Asia in their prayers.