Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Tuesday called on foreign countries which buy gas from Indonesia to relocate their industries here to help create more jobs in the country.

"I request all friendly countries, if they need gas from Indonesia, to relocate their industries so as to expand employment, " the president said at a news conference at the State Palace here.

Susilo said the government would prioritize gas distribution to domestic needs although the country would continue selling gas to international markets.

"It will be seen case by case. But it benefits us more if gas is prioritized for domestic needs," he said.

The domestic gas supply will be allocated partly to the country 's power generators to cope with the soaring fuel prices, he said.

The Indonesian government has decided not to extend gas supply contract with other countries which expire in 2009-2010. Susilo said the government honors existing gas supply contracts with other countries and would not cut them in the middle of the term.

Source: Xinhua