The history of the Mahligai Graveyard indicated that the relations between Indonesia and the Middle East ..."Sibolga (ANTARA News) - The Mahligai Graveyard in Barus Sub-district, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, is evidence of the existence of Indonesia-Middle East relations that were established in the sixth century, or 661 A.D., President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) stated.
"The history of the Mahligai Graveyard indicated that the relations between Indonesia and the Middle East had existed since the sixth century, or in 661 A.D. or 48 Hegira," the president noted after a visit to the Mahligai graveyard in Barus, Central Tapanuli, on Friday.
He said that it is hence normal, if relations, which had existed since centuries, are now growing deeper.
"If our relations are now closer, it is normal. Our relations had been close in the past, so now, our ties are becoming increasingly deeper," he explained.
Jokowi said the ties were forged through trade relations, with the trading of camphor, pepper, nutmeg, and frankincense.
"In Barus and the surrounding areas, there are symbols indicating that our relations actually date back to hundreds of years," the head of state pointed out.
The president vowed to develop the site as one of the countrys tourist destinations.
"You can inquire about the development of this site from the minister of education and culture or from the officials in this region," the president added.
(Uu.A014/INE/KR-BSR/H-YH)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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