Yudhoyono Underlines Importance Of Promoting Democracy Peacefully

Nusa Dua, Bali, Nov 7 (Antara) - Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono underlined the importance of promoting democratic values through peaceful means. "Allow me to reiterate the need to realize democracy based on civil values and by avoiding anarchy and through peaceful means," he said at the opening of the Sixth Bali Democracy Forum here on Thursday. The BDF was attended by Sultan Hassanah Bolkiah from Brunei Darussalam and Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao as well as representatives from the Asia Pacific region and observers from outside the region. President Yudhoyono warned that although democracy was built on noble values to create a civil society, chances remain for violence to be used as a means to achieve goals. "We are now living in an era where various kinds of democratic practices across the spectrum are being implemented," he stated. In view of this, he called for the continued promotion of inclusive principles and public participation as the soul of a democracy to benefit future generations. "Let us preserve our democracy by promoting tolerance, mutual respect and good will," he asserted. The annual forum, held since 2008, is scheduled to discuss the development of democracy in the Asia Pacific region and aims to promote regional and international cooperation.