Indonesian Democracy Development Impresses Netherlands Foreign Minister

Nusa Dua, Bali, Nov 7 (Antara) - Netherlands Foreign Affairs Minister Frans Timmermans said the development of Indonesian democracy has impressed the Dutch government, particularly President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono`s efforts in establishing democracy in the country. "We are very excited about the development of democracy in the ASEAN region, especially about the achievements of President Yudhoyono, who has had remarkable success in creating and conducting democracy in Indonesia," said Timmermans in an interview with Antara here, Thursday afternoon. He said the success in developing democracy could be helpful for other countries, making Indonesia a positive partner in the SE Asia region. Timmermans said that the Netherlands is willing to be part of this development and to give support for the establishment of democracy. "I think all governments around the world profit when democracy is strengthened. We can learn a lot from the experience in this region," he said. He also noted that democracy should always be reinvented and adaptable to different people and conditions. He said democracy needs to be developed, even in countries in which people have different religions, political parties, or languages, so that people have a sense of belonging to their country. "It is something that the world can learn about. The Netherlands wants to be a part of the experience, so I can report back to my country about what we see here at the Bali Democracy Forum," Timmermans said. Timmermans said the Netherlands is also looking forward to further cooperating in developing democracy with the Institute for Peace and Democracy, which was established in Indonesia during the first BDF in 2008. Timmermans is visiting Indonesia to attend the BDF VI, which has the theme "Consolidating Democracy in a Pluralistic Society". The Indonesia Foreign Affairs Ministry is hosting BDF VI from November 7-8, 2013 in Nusa Dua, Bali. At least three heads of state inaugurated the BDF VI, including RI President Yudhoyono, Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Hassanal Bolkiah and Timor Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao. There are two sub-themes that will be discussed during BDF VI, including the explanation of free and fair general elections held in participating BDF countries. The second sub-theme is an explanation of how to build and strengthen democratic institutions in each country.