... cited the Indonesian president's words of praise for Fukuda's vision and integrity as a statesman, and his relationship with Indonesia as Japanese Prime Minister and as chairman of JAPINDA....
Jakarta (Reuters) - Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa presented a Bintang Mahaputera Adipradana medal to former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda at a ceremony in Tokyo on Thursday.

According to a Foreign Affairs Ministry press release issued on Thursday, Fukuda's decoration was based on a mandate from President Susilo Yudhoyono.

The ceremony took place at the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, attended by officials from the Japanese Foreign Affairs Ministry, members of the Japan-Indonesia Association (JAPINDA), Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Muhammad Lutfi, and Consule General in Osaka Ibnu Hadi.

The medal was conferred on the former Japanese leader in accordance with Presidential Decree No 81/TK/2011 which referred to Fukuda`s meritorious services in enhancing and promoting Indonesia-Japan friendship and relationships.

In his speech on the occasion, Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa cited the Indonesian president's words of praise for Fukuda's vision and integrity as a statesman, and his relationship with Indonesia as Japanese Prime Minister and as chairman of JAPINDA.

"The established interaction is expected to open opportunities to more extensive cooperation to interpret the recent Indonesia-Japan strategic partnership," said Marty.

Japanese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Keinichiro Sasae in his speech on the same occasion also expressed appreciation for Fukuda, and for the growth of the Indonesia-Japan relationship.

After pinning the Bintang Adipradana Mahaputera medal on Fukuda, Marty handed a copy of the Indonesian president`s decree to former Japanese prime minister.

JAPINDA is an organization dedicated to the promotion of good relations between Indonesia and Japan. It often organizes events that involve people from both countries such as a recent "Friends of Indonesia" program and celebrations of Indonesia`s Independence Day.

Fukuda is now a member of the Japanese Diet`s Lower House representing his native Gunma Prefecture. (*)

Editor: Ade P Marboen
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