Indonesia is Example of Tolerant Diversity, French President Says

President Jokowi and French President Françoise Hollande have a veranda talk at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday (29/3)

President of France Françoise Hollande appreciated Indonesia that he considers a country with the largest Muslim population in the world that can be an example of tolerant diversity.

“We all know that Indonesia is an example of the tolerant diversity and also our inspiration,” President Françoise Hollande said in a joint press statement with President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo after the signing of Memorandums of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Government of the France Republic on Wednesday (29/3), at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta.

According to Hollande, France shares the same principles on freedom and tolerance as Indonesia. Therefore, the French President believes that with the concept of Islam in Indonesia which stresses the way to live in harmony, France and Indonesia should be strong in facing terrorism threats without discriminating any religion.

Regarding five bilateral cooperation agreements signed by the two countries, President Hollande said it is a proof that the cooperation between Indonesia and France is enhanced.

“Similarities on self-sufficiency in defense encourage Indonesia and France to conduct cooperation in the field of defense. France appreciates Indonesian peacekeeping soldiers deployed in Lebanon and through negotiation, conflicts can be resolved,” Hollande added.

Other cooperation between the two countries is on creative industries, not only in film but also in fashion and video games.

France has also decided to enhance cooperation on transportation sector with Indonesia. “We will develop transportation that will affect tourism, infrastructures, seaports, and cities in Indonesian islands,” Hollande said. (RMI/AGG/ES)  (RA/EP/YM/Naster)