INDIA SEES INDONESIA AS A UNIQUE DEMOCRATIC ROLE MODEL

Indian ambassador to Indonesia Biren Nanda stated that Indonesia is a unique role model in managing democratic institutions.

"Indonesia is unique and diverse, this country consists of various ethnic groups, religions, and cultures, that is why, Indonesia is a role model for countries in managing diversity," the Ambassador stated at "A Slice of India" event at Paramadina University, Jakarta, Tuesday.

On the occasion, Biren Nanda, who has previously served as a diplomat in Tokyo, also praised Indonesia for playing an important role to support many international events promoting democracy and human rights.

"Historically, Indonesia has been an initiator and supporter of international bodies such as African-Asian and Non-Aligned Movements, and also ASEAN," Nanda said.

In such actions, Nanda said Indonesia made efforts to manage democracy, protect human rights, and develop social justice, which are exemplary for other countries.

Meanwhile, the President of Paramadina University, Anies Baswedan in his remarks on the opening of the event viewed Indian culture as inspiring and have some similarities with Indonesian culture.

"This similarity in culture such as the sounds and meanings of words, characters and stories in puppetry can be used to know each others` culture and foster friendship," said Baswedan.

In line with Baswedan, the Ambassador underlined the importance of developing people-to-people relations.

"Culture can promote diplomacy that can bridges our understanding," said the ambassador for Indonesian government since June 10, 2008.

"A Slice of India" in Paramadina University initiated by Paramadina University and Jawaharlal Nehru Indian Cultural Center (JNICC) of the Indian Embassy.

The activity performed various Indian cultures such as classic dances of Kathak and Bharat Natyam, it also performed Tabla with Sitar music show. There was also a discussion about instruments of cultural diplomacy in Indian and Indonesian relationship.

The activity was aimed to increasingly improve the insight and knowledge to young Indonesians about India.