Jusuf Kalla Reelected CAPDI Chairman

Makassar, South Sulawesi, May 21 (Antara) - Former Indonesian vice president Jusuf Kalla is again reelected chairman of the Centrist Asia-Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI) for the third time for 2013-2017 period. During the plenary session of the second CAPDI General Assembly at Aryaduta Hotel Ballroom here on Tuesday, the delegates from 20 countries elected Kalla to chair the Asia-Pacific Democrats International for the next three-year period. Kalla, who who has held the CAPDI`s chairmanship position for the second time, said here on Tuesday that he would focus more of his attention on common interest. "I will focus on how to work in accordance with the rule of organization and common interest," Kalla told the press here on Tuesday. Meanwhile, CAPDI Assembly President Makarim Wibisono said Kalla`s reelection was made by an acclamation. Besides electing CAPDI chairman and arranging Makassar Declaration, second CAPDI General Assembly also decided to increase the number of positions in the structure of the organization. "CAPDI has a lot of challenges and therefore its organization structure must be strengthened by increasing the number of positions which did not exist before," Makarim said. The CAPDI members are holding a three-day conference in Makassar, South Sulawesi, from Sunday to Tuesday to call for peace and push for reconciliation between countries in the region. Earlier in the day, Cambodian prime minister`s spokesman Suos Yara said he has proposed Jusuf Kalla to be the CAPDI general chairman for the third time. "For us, Jusuf Kalla is a dynamic figure who has a high commitment during his leadership. He is a prospective CAPDI chairman from us," Suos Yara said. He also opined that Kalla was not only a peace-loving figure but also the doer of reconciliation with high commitment and strong leadership. CAPDI is a non-profit organization that plays an active role in international political affairs, and was founded by seven political parties from Asia-Pacific countries, including Golkar Party from Indonesia.