AAC Strengthens International Solidarity: Sultan

Jakarta, Apr 22 (Antara) - Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Hassanal Bolkiah said the commemoration of the Asian-African Conference (AAC) will strengthen solidarity among countries. "The commemoration of the Asian-African Conference will strengthen solidarity, economic cooperation, and social and cultural ties among participants," Sultan noted while delivering a speech at the AAC summit here Wednesday. Sultan Bolkiah believes the Asian-African Conference partnerships will forge better understanding among communities. The theme of the conference, Strengthening South-South Cooperation to Promote World Peace and Prosperity, can strengthen cooperation and interconnectivity in various sectors such as economy and investment, he added. Sultan Bolkiah remarked that Brunei is ready to establish cooperation for the good of Asian and African communities. The south-south cooperation will be beneficial and hence should be maintained and advanced, Sultan stressed. Meanwhile, President Joko Widodo, together with President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe, led the first plenary session of the Asian-African Summit that was attended by several heads of state and government. A number of heads of state and government in their speeches given on the occasion shared their views on the importance of regional cooperation in various fields to promote the people's welfare and development. At the first plenary session, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno L.P Marsudi delivered a report of the meeting of senior and ministerial-level officials held a few days ago. A report of the Asian-African business meeting was conveyed by Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Suryo Bambang Sulisto.