On Friday, President Jokowi received a state visit by Australian Governor-General David Hurley at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java.
"Among others, the president and governor-general discussed how to intensify language teaching, for example, teaching English in Indonesia and Indonesian in Australia," Marsudi stated after accompanying President Jokowi in the meeting.
She explained that the bilateral meeting between President Jokowi and Governor-General Hurley sought to strengthen people-to-people relations between both nations through ways, including the medium of language.
According to the minister, Indonesian language teaching has been carried out in Australia, but it needs to be strengthened, as language is believed to serve as a bridge to bring the two countries closer.
Related news: President Widodo receives visit of Australian Governor General Hurley
In addition to intensifying language teaching, Governor-General Hurley expressed enthusiasm to bring the two countries closer through approaches, such as his involvement in several organizations.
"He is one of the Indonesia-Australia defense alumni association founders. He was active in youth exchanges and interfaith dialogue. Meanwhile, we are preparing for the second interfaith dialogue in Australia this year," Marsudi remarked.
Hurley's visit to the Bogor Palace is part of his visits to Indonesia on May 14-18, 2024, under the framework of celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between both nations.
In an official statement issued by the Australian Embassy to Indonesia, Hurley said that Indonesia will always be one of Australia's strategic partners.
"We are geographically neighbors, and partners and friends by choice. In this visit, I aim to celebrate that friendship and pay tribute to the many people from both countries who have contributed to this friendship," Hurley affirmed.
Related news: Indonesia, Australia discuss efforts to strengthen cooperation
Translator: Mentari G, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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