Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) invited the youth of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) to drive the people's economy together in an effort to create prosperity that can be enjoyed by all parties.

"Equity is not easy to achieve, but I see the strength in NU now is the young people, who are smart. There are several young people (in NU that have graduated) from big universities from all over the country," President Jokowi stated while opening the 34th NU Congress at the Darussa'adah Islamic Boarding School, Gunung Sugih Sub-District, Central Lampung District, Lampung Province, on Wednesday.

The president believes that if the youth of NU can drive the economic potential and invite all parties to participate in economic activities, it will bring prosperity for all parties.

The potential of the young generation at NU can create economic equity across all societal levels, he affirmed.

In order to realize economic equity, the president has advised the youth of NU to form a forum or business group.

The government expressed readiness to provide concessions or permits for resource management, he affirmed.

"I will prepare for agricultural concessions as well as mineral and coal concessions that engage in nickel, coal, bauxite, and copper businesses," Jokowi stated.

However, the head of state is keen that the business of NU youths be managed in a large group.

"Thus, later, they can invite other parties and enjoy the economic benefits together," he explained.

"This is a big job, but I see the potential in NU. It is just a matter of realizing it," he noted.

The head of state attended the 34th NU Congress accompanied by First Lady Iriana.

Indonesian Vice President Ma'ruf Amin and his spouse Wury also attended the 34th NU Congress.

Translator: Indra A, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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