Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono respects criticism leveled at the government so long as it is addressed directly to build good communication, a minister said.

After accompanying President Yudhoyono to meet with Muhammadiyah Youth Central Committee at the presidential office here on Thursday, Youth and Sports Affairs Minister Andi Malarangeng said the president respected the criticism of the government`s performance.

"The president expressed hope that the Muhamadiyah Youths could give their contribution, including suggestions and critical thinking. If they want to meet with the minister for a dialog to obtain what the government has done, they will be welcome," Andi Malarangeng quoted the president as saying.

Meanwhile, Muhammadiyah Youth Central Committee chairman Saleh Partaonan Daulay said the organization`s management and he met with President Yudhoyono to report the work program of the new management for the next four years.

"We convey some basic work programs for the next four years to be carried out with the government," Saleh Daulay said.

But Daulay said the polemics and criticisms of several interfaith leaders surrounding the government performance were not specifically discussed at the meeting.

At the meeting with President Yudhoyono, Daulay was accompanied by Muhammadiyah Youth secretary general Rahimandani and general treasurer Edi Satria, while the
president was accompanied by Minister/State Secretary Sudi Silalahi, Cabinet Secretary Dipo Alam, and Andi Malarangeng.(*)

(T.SYS/B/O001/A/O001) 20-01-2011 14:13:21

Editor: Ruslan Burhani
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