Education has played important role for the bilateral relations between the two countries in cementing people-to-people ties and increasing both nations` understanding, said Australian Education Minister Senator Chris Evans here on Thursday.
Senator Evans made the statement after holding a meeting with Vice President Boediono and National Education Minister M. Nuh.
The Australian minister said Indonesia was an important partner and the two countries could benefit from the exchange programs in the economic and social sectors carried out by the two peoples, particularly by sharing education experiences.
Vice President Boediono had a long history in the education field in several Australian universities including the University of Western Australia, where he had graduated.
Australia would continue to promote the important education cooperation with Indonesia, he stated.
Until 2015, the investment in education cooperation would reach 500 million Australian dollars which will be used to build and upgrade schools, teacher training courses and promote pluralism and tolerance in Indonesia, the Senator said.
Australia remains the main destination for Indonesian students. More than 18,000 Indonesian students studied in the neighboring country during 2010.(*)
Editor: Aditia Maruli Radja
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
