Indonesia Blessed With Diversity That Unites the Country, President Jokowi Says
President Jokowi delivers an address at Gaston Hall, Healy Building, Georgetown University, Washington DC, the United States of America, Monday (11/13). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Laily Rachev)
Indonesia is blessed with differences and diversity that unite the country, Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has said.
“In managing diversity, we have a guideline, an ideology named Pancasila, [and our national motto of] unity in diversity, which serves as an inspiration in every facet of life, including in the life of the state,” the President said in his address at Gaston Hall, Healy Building, Georgetown University in Washington DC, the United States of America, Monday (11/13).
The event drew almost 500 attendants, including academics and students.
According to the President, Indonesia considers it acceptable if differences lead to rivalry and competition between countries, but it is important to manage those differences so not to trigger an open conflict that can cause regional instability.
“Communication, room for dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation are key to achieving stability and peace at regional and global levels,” he said, while underscoring that Indonesia is also open to building cooperation with all countries.
The Head of State also surmised that Indonesia does not take any side of power, except that of peace and humanity.
“That is the principle that we uphold during Indonesia’s Presidency of the G20 and ASEAN and we implement amid a divided world marred with a fierce rivalry and an escalating geopolitical situation,” he said.
The world, the President said, is facing humanitarian issues due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Palestine conflict, adding that global solidarity and leadership are key to resolving prolonged humanitarian conflicts.
“We all shoulder the same responsibility to keep the peace and we must complete this duty right now,” he remarked. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/AIT) (DH/EP)
