"Democracy and Development Are Inseparable"
VIVAnews - The Bali Democracy Forum (BDF) ended today, Dec 11. According to Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda, the forum resulted in an idea that development and democracy are inseparable.
"Both matters are inter-connected and inseparable. It is a mistake should there be a thinking that advanced progress and rapid economic growth are a result of authoritarian system," said Wirajuda.
He acknowledged that Indonesia's failure in the past was caused by incapability of balancing between economic development and democracy. "This is the issue that we are sharing: that a balancing between democracy and development is needed. Both elements support each other," he said.
So far, according to Hassan, compared to other regions in Europe, Africa, South America, Asia is deemed quite underdeveloped in its attempts for better democracy. "We are still very cautious in bringing up the issue on democracy in inter-governmental discussions in the region," he said.
The presence of four heads of state in one forum--Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Ruud and Brunei Darussalam's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah--were a fine combination.
Australia is a developed country with fine democratic tradition. Indonesia in a short period of time has managed to transform itself from a somewhat authoritarian into a democratic country. Timor Leste is still busy developing its economy and improving its democracy. Brunei Darussalam remains with its monarchy-sultanate form of government.
Coverage: Wima Saraswati/ Bali
Translated by: Bonardo Maulana Wahono
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