Indonesia Initiates Interfaith And Cultural Dialogue of MIKTA Countries

Yogyakarta, 17 Muharram 1438/18 October 2016 (MINA) – Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Ministry of Religious Affairs has held an Interfaith and Cultural Dialogue (DLAB) of MIKTA which includes Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea, Turkey, and Australia in Yogyakarta 18-19 October 2016.

The event was participated in by religious leaders, cultural, academic, and civil society officials from the countries. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, A.M Fachir opened  the dialogue, while Governor of Yogyakarta Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X delivered welcomng remarks.

In opening remarks, Fachir among others stated that Indonesia and other MIKTA countries have a close bilateral relationship and the relationship will certainly be stronger through cooperation.

MIKTA has been active in some meetings organized to discuss several issues such as peace, security, refugees, gender empowerment, trade and global economy since its inception in 2013, the ministry said in an official release..

It also has been running various outreach programs in the area of youth and media

“The cooperation with MIKTA is in line with foreign policy that is independent and active. The dialogue is an initiative of Indonesia in an effort to address global security situation, namely terrorism, radicalism, and extremism,” Fachir added.

Futhermore, Fachir expected the hope that MIKTA cooperation can be a bridge a gap and bring about consensus on several issues of common concern.. MIKTA also hopes to become an inclusive cooperation involving all the parties, not only the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The DLAB, themed “Strengthening solidarity, friendship, and cooperation through interfaith and intercultural dialogue”, is aimed at sharing knowledge and experience among member countries in improving understanding and promoting of tolerance, peace, moderation, and respect among peoples multi religion and culture.

MIKTA is a Cross Regional Consultative Platform of ministerial level, which was formed during the 68th meeting of the UN General Assembly meeting on 17 September 2013 based on various equations among them, including the ability of the economy and regional role. MIKTA expected to work together to boost contribution to the development of the international community.(L/P008/R07)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)