Jokowi Highlights Pressing Global Issues During Opening of 9th Bali Democracy Forum
Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo opened the ninth Bali Democracy Forum in Nusa Dua, Badung, on Thursday (08/12).
In his opening speech, Jokowi welcome distinguished guests, including former United Nations secretary general Kofi Annan, before acknowledging some pressing global issues.
"This include the struggle for Palestinian independence that is still far from the expected result; rapid development of radicalism and extremism in various parts of the world; as well as the decline of tolerance and the will to accept diversity in many communities, or growing xenophobia," he said.
The president also urged optimism in addressing domestic challenges related to politics, the economy and social affairs in almost every country.
"In these situations, we need optimism that result from discussion; optimism that can be developed from an exchange of ideas and experience; the one that I hope to ignite with our presence in this democracy forum," Jokowi said.
The theme of this year's forum, which is taking place at the Bali International Convention Center, is "Religion, Democracy and Tolerance."
"Tolerance is needed because we are diverse," Jokowi said. He added that religion plays a crucial role in people's lives in terms of their social, economic and political existence on a national, regional and global scale.
"And I believe that all of us in this room agree on the importance of democracy for a nation, as well as for international relations," he said.
The president concluded by saying that all stakeholders have a duty to ensure that democracy is implemented properly to support stability and peace, as well as improve people's welfare.
Jokowi, who was accompanied by Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, former foreign minister Hasan Wirayuda and Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika, hit a gong to signify the official start of the event.
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