Indonesian government troops have killed seven suspected rebels in clashes in war-torn Aceh province.
A military spokesman says the rebels were killed Wednesday in two separate gunbattles in the province.
The incident comes as Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono prepares to make his first trip to Aceh Friday. His spokesman says Mr. Yudhoyono will meet with local government and religious leaders during his one-day visit.
The rebel Free Aceh Movement has been fighting for independence for the province since 1976. Indonesia launched a major military campaign against the rebels in May 2003.
Some information for this report provided by AFP and AP.
