Jakarta (ANTARA News) - US Congressman Keith Ellison lauded Indonesia as
a living example of the peaceful coexistence of Islam and democracy.
"Many Arab states that are identified with Islam should learn a
lot from Indonesia," Congressman Ellison remarked while welcoming
Indonesian Ambassador to US Budi Bowoleksono, in Capitol Hill, on
Thursday (July 24).
According to a press release from the Indonesian Embassy in
Washington, Ellison noted that the election held in Indonesia is the
most transparent in the world, where all its citizens can follow and
monitor the entire process," remarked Ambassador Budi Bowoleksono.
Ambassador Bowoleksono and Congressman Ellison also discussed
about the Islamophobia phenomenon that exists in the international
community, which also includes the US.
Bowoleksono believed that Indonesia is a perfect example where
the Muslim majority are moderate and not identified with violence. A
handful of individuals and certain groups who carry out violence are an
exception.
"The seeds of radicalism and extremism in followers of any
religion or ideological group are always present, and it has nothing to
do with the values and teachings of Islam," Ellison added.
On the occasion, Ambassador Bowoleksono also discussed the current
developments in Gaza and Irans nuclear negotiations and appreciated
Keith Ellisons position on being balanced in addressing the developments
in Gaza.
In addition, Ambassador Bowoleksono also appreciated Keith
Ellisons stance that offers diplomatic space for the Obama
administration to conduct negotiations related to a nuclear Iran.
"I really appreciate your fair and balanced attitude and
position over the Palestinian and Iranian issues, contrast to the
majority of other members of Congress," Ambassador Bowoleksono
emphasized.
Keith Allison, who is also a Muslim, is one of the 27 members of
the Indonesian Caucus in Congress that are part of an effort to fight
for the interests of Indonesia in the United States, particularly in
relation to the US parliament.
US Congressman Praises Indonesia`s Democracy
Jumat, 25 Juli 2014 14:42 WIB