To have a better and deeper understanding of Australians and Indonesians’ unique political, economic, social and religious characters, perception about each other have to be updated regularly and properly. Mutual and Beneficial relationship between Government-to-Government, People-to-People and Business-to-Business of both countries must be mutually encouraged.
A high level conference on the future of both countries’ relationship was held in Sydney from 19-21 February 2009. This is the first conference that brought together leading and influential Indonesians and Australians from a range of backgrounds including government, industry, academia, the media, community organizations, faith group and youth. All the participants actively discussed number of issues and how they might more effectively address common challenges including strengthening democratic institutions, business and protecting environment.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd spoke at a diner to launch the conference. The dinner was also to mark the 20th anniversary of the foundation of the Australia-Indonesia Institute (AII).
Among senior government officials who participated in the conference were Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, Indonesian Foreign Minister Dr. Hassan Wirajuda, Australian Minister for Trade Simon Crean, Indonesian Trade Minister Dr. Mari Pangestu, Australian Minister for Climate Change and Water Penny Wong, Indonesian environment minister Environment Rachmat Witoelar, and Australian Parliamentary Secretary for International Development Assistance Bob McMullan.
It was also addressed during the conference that education is the key element of both nations development program. Currently both authorities are working together on an ambitious and wonderful project to build, repair or expand 2000 high schools across 20 Indonesian provinces by the end of 2009, the idea is to give children across Indonesia, from the poorest of areas, the hope of a better future. The Australian Government through AusAID also awards 300 development scholarships to Indonesian students to study in Australia each year. Both countries also strengthening their cultural partnership through Youth Exchange program every year.
Written by: Syalomi Natalia, Communication Officer of AusAID ANTARA and Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program (AIYEP) Alumni 1995-1996.
Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs-Hassan Wirajuda, Frans Lebu Raya-Governor of NTT and Syalomi Natalia-AIYEP 95/96 Alumni during the conference.