"Many Arab states that are identified with Islam should learn a lot from Indonesia," Congressman Ellison remarked while welcoming Indonesian Ambassador to US Budi Bowoleksono, in Capitol Hill, on Thursday (July 24).
According to a press release from the Indonesian Embassy in Washington, Ellison noted that the election held in Indonesia is the most transparent in the world, where all its citizens can follow and monitor the entire process," remarked Ambassador Budi Bowoleksono.
Ambassador Bowoleksono and Congressman Ellison also discussed about the Islamophobia phenomenon that exists in the international community, which also includes the US.
Bowoleksono believed that Indonesia is a perfect example where the Muslim majority are moderate and not identified with violence. A handful of individuals and certain groups who carry out violence are an exception.
"The seeds of radicalism and extremism in followers of any religion or ideological group are always present, and it has nothing to do with the values and teachings of Islam," Ellison added.
On the occasion, Ambassador Bowoleksono also discussed the current developments in Gaza and Irans nuclear negotiations and appreciated Keith Ellisons position on being balanced in addressing the developments in Gaza.
In addition, Ambassador Bowoleksono also appreciated Keith Ellisons stance that offers diplomatic space for the Obama administration to conduct negotiations related to a nuclear Iran.
"I really appreciate your fair and balanced attitude and position over the Palestinian and Iranian issues, contrast to the majority of other members of Congress," Ambassador Bowoleksono emphasized.
Keith Allison, who is also a Muslim, is one of the 27 members of the Indonesian Caucus in Congress that are part of an effort to fight for the interests of Indonesia in the United States, particularly in relation to the US parliament.
(Tz.A050/INE)
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Editor: Aditia Maruli Radja
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