President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is expected to be conferred with the 2013 World Statesman Award by ACF on May 30th. 2013
2013 Special Awards Dinner
in honor of
HIS EXCELLENCY SUSILO BAMBANG YUDHOYONO
President of the Republic of Indonesia
World Statesman Award 2013
LOUIS R. CHÊNEVERT
Chairman & CEO, United Technologies Corporation
Appeal of Conscience Award 2013 was held at the garden foyer of the Pierre luxury hotel located at 2 East 61st Street at the intersection of Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City, facing
The award, which the president accepted in person in
the name of all Indonesians, at The Pierre Hotel Manhattan,New York city,on Thursday night, “is an encouragement to advance human rights, religious
freedom and inter-religious cooperation": the core objectives of the
Appeal of Conscience Foundation worldwide
The foundation has handed out its "world statesman" award for decades, without controversy, to leaders such as British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.
H.E. SUSILO BAMBANG YUDHOYONO
IMMEDIATELY UPON ACCEPTING
THE WORLD STATESMAN AWARD CONFERRED BY
THE APPEAL OF CONSCIENCE FOUNDATION
NEW YORK, 29 MAY 2013
Rabbi Arthur Schneier
Your Excellency Henry Kissinger
Distinguished Guests,
I humbly accept this World Statesman Award. Let me thank Rabbi Schneier and the Appeal of Conscience Foundation for this award. Your work and dedication have and will continue to inspire the cause for peace and mutual understanding throughout the world.
In my view, a statesman works in pursuit of what he believes is right and not on the basis of popularity based on opinion surveys. He works beyond politics in taking risks and facing challenges.
Moreover, statesmanship does not need to always be exercised by a single person. Statesmanship can be collective. And it is the collective statesmanship of Indonesians of all walks of life that makes Indonesia progress and prosper.
Thus, I accept this award on behalf of the Indonesian people. May this award provide momentum for us to continue our endeavor in the promotion of humanity and the common good of peoples. May the hard work and resolve of all Indonesians further encourage us to achieve the dreams of our founding fathers: a harmonious society bonded in peace and prosperity.
Thank you.
Happy 90th. birthday , Henry Kissinger
Rabbi Arthur Schneier's Appeal of Conscience Foundation gave President Yudhoyono the award on Thursday..He implicitly noted the controversy, saying, "You fully understand that the work is not complete. This is just a step in the right direction."
President Yudhoyono left Stockholm, Sweden, for New York,
US, shortly following the meeting with the country’s top businessmen on
Wednesday morning, local time, completing his two-day state visit to the
European nation.
Yudhoyono met with the top executives one-on-one at the Grand Hotel Stockholm.
They were Ulf Berg, CEO of investment and trade council Business Sweden; Jacob Wallenberg, chairman of investment firm Investor AB; Hans Vestberg, president CEO of telecommunication company Ericsson; as well as Ingvar Feodor Kamprad and Mikael Ohlsson, founder and president of furniture maker IKEA.
Sweden is an important Scandinavian partner, as of January, at least 77 Swedish companies were operating in Indonesia.
Total trade between the two countries reached US$1.46 billion in 2012, mostly attributed to Swedish exports to Indonesia. The trade volume in 2012 represented a 28 percent increase from $1.05 billion in 2011.
On Tuesday, Yudhoyono met with King Carl XVI Gustav, Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and parliament speaker Per Westerberg.
“Discussions covered cooperation in new sectors such as healthcare, science and technology, as well as world peacekeeping efforts,” presidential spokesman for foreign affairs Teuku Faizasyah said in a statement made available on Wednesday.
According to him, Reinfeldt also told Yudhoyono that aerospace and defense company Saab Group had planned to offer engineering doctoral scholarships to 50 Indonesians starting from 2014.
Members of Indonesian jazz band White Shoes and the Couples Company, who happened to be having a concert in Sweden, appeared at the hotel entrance when the President and First Lady Ani Yudhoyono were on their way to attend a state dinner hosted by the prime minister on Tuesday evening.
Yudhoyono’s delegation departed for New York on Wednesday afternoon, local time.
The President chaired the final meeting of the United Nations’ (UN) high-level panel on the post-2015 development agenda themed "The Way Forward and Political Consensus" on Wednesday, at the United Nations Headquarters, along with Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Indonesia's Antara news agency reported
He said that following the discussion ,the final report on the Post 2015 Development Agenda would be submitted to the United Nations' Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to be discussed by the UN member countries.
"The document which I will submit to the UN secretary general is a report: `One World: A Global Partnership for Sustainable Development & Poverty Eradication`."
The submission of the report to the UN secretary general will mark the end of the task and the mandate of the Panel which has previously held four meetings in New York (September 2012), London, Britain (November 2012), Monrovia, Liberia (February 2013) and Bali, Indonesia (March 2012).
After submitting the report, President Yudhoyono would also attend the UN General Assembly's session to have briefing with regard to the output of the Panel's work.
UN Headquarter, New York, USA, 30-5-2013
BRIEFING BY
DR. SUSILO BAMBANG YUDHOYONO
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA
TO THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
ON THE REPORT OF THE UN HIGH-LEVEL PANEL OF EMINENT PERSONS ON
THE POST-2015 DEVELOPMENT AGENDA
TRUSTEESHIP COUNCIL CHAMBER
UN HEADQUARTERS
NEW YORK, 30 MAY 2013
Mr. President,
Mr. Secretary-General,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I thank you for the invitation to brief the General Assembly on the Report of the UN High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.
I would like to focus my briefing on the two aspects of the Report: its process of preparation and its substances.
Let me begin with the preparation process of the Report.
A year ago, Mr. Secretary-General established a High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda. He also appointed me, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom as Co-Chairs of the Panel.
The establishment of the Panel is part of the Secretary-General’s post-2015 initiative mandated by the 2010 Millennium Development Goals Summit. And its objective is clear: to prepare a bold yet practical vision on a post-2015 development agenda. An agenda that places at its core shared responsibilities for all countries, and the fight against poverty and sustainable development.
Today, on behalf of the Panel and the other two Co-Chairs, I am pleased to inform you that the Panel has successfully completed its mandate. And this morning I had submitted the Report to Mr. Secretary-General.
Compared to other UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panels, the working period of this Panel was relatively short. However, we managed to convene five consecutive meetings: in New York in September 2012; in London in November 2012; in Monrovia in February 2013; in Bali in March 2013; and lastly, in New York yesterday to formally adopt the report.
Throughout these meetings, the Panel conducted rigorous and constructive discussions and consultations on the structure, narrative, and substances of the report. And through these meetings—in collaboration with the Panel’s Secretariat—we were able to sharpen the report from time to time.
We have also carried out extensive open and inclusive consultations, involving not only the UN system but also extensive stakeholders. From civil society groups to parliamentarians, the private sector, academia, research institutions, women, and youths from all regions.
The Panel has also listened carefully to views of farmers, workers of informal sector, migrants, people with disabilities, small business owners, women entrepreneurs, young people and children, and many more.
I note that the Panel has had the privilege of interacting with more than 5000 organizations from more than 120 countries. The Panel also received and reviewed more than 850 written submissions of comments and inputs. These diverse perspectives have contributed to the immense depth and richness of the Report. These inputs are mostly about what we aspire in 2030 and how to get there.
Through these extensive consultations and outreach, we believe that the Panel report is not merely a product of its 27 members. It is also a reflection of the interests of a wide range of stakeholders—who wish to unshackle the poor from the vicious circle of poverty.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Now let me turn to the substantive aspect of the report.
The Panel is convinced that our vision and responsibility is to end extreme poverty in all its forms. And this is in the context of sustainable development and sustainable growth with equity.
The international community has done a lot in lifting many people out of poverty. Yet, one billion people still live on 1.25 dollars a day or less.
Many people are also still lacking access to nutritious food, quality healthcare and education, as well as basic infrastructure such as fresh water and sanitation. This situation is even worse for women.
In many countries, the situation has also been aggravated by violent conflicts, economic shocks and natural disasters. In the last decade, we have witnessed unprecedented natural disasters induced by climate change, which caused setbacks to the achievements of the MDGs.
Therefore, if we are to cut the vicious circle of poverty, we need to address poverty in all of its manifestations.
Also critical to our efforts to alleviate poverty is a renewed global partnership. A genuine global partnership requires all stakeholders—be it government, private sector, civil society, scholar and international organizations—to have a sense of common purpose and to act in the common interest.
We have taken these points into our consideration as we defined the Post-2015 Development Agenda, including its goals.
And with regard to the goals of the new development agenda, you may find that the annex of the Panel’s Report outlines twelve illustrative goals of the agenda. These goals include:
First, ending poverty;
Second, empowering girls and women, and achieving gender equality;
Third, providing quality education and lifelong learning;
Fourth, ensuring healthy lives;
Fifth, ensuring food security and good nutrition;
Sixth, achieving universal access to water and sanitation;
Seventh, securing sustainable energy;
Eighth, creating jobs, sustainable livelihoods, and equitable growth;
Ninth, managing natural resource assets sustainably;
Tenth, ensuring good governance and effective institutions;
Eleventh, ensuring stable and peaceful societies; and
Twelfth, creating a global enabling environment and catalyzing long-term finance.
With these twelve universal goals, we have given the Report a theme ''A New Global Partner-ship: Eradicate Poverty and Transform Economies through Sustainable Development.''
I have to emphasize here that these illustrative goals are not meant to dictate what will be the definitive development goals. It is crystal clear that the definitive development goals are at the hand of Member States during the inter-governmental process.
What appears in the annex is merely the Panel’s attempt to illustrate, based on extensive consultations and outreach, on what development issues need to be prioritized.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Finally, on behalf of the Co-Chairs and members of the Panel, I would like to express our gratitude for the confidence Mr. Secretary-General has bestowed on us in advising him on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.
This report might not be perfect nor satisfactory to all of us. However, we humbly hope that the report could provide fresh ideas and inputs to Mr. Secretary-General and all distinguished Member States about the shape and vision of our development agenda beyond 2015.
I thank you.
Briefing on the Report of the UN HLP of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda
Presidential Special Staff for International Affairs Teuku Faizasyah said earlier that the final meeting would be the culmination of a long process of the drafting of the Panel's report on the vision of the Post 2015 Development Agenda.
"Like the MDGs, the post 2015 development agenda outlined in the panel`s report will become a reference for countries in setting the priorities of their development in the 15 to 20 years to come after 2015," he said.
He would also be conferred with the World Statesman Award by the US based Appeal of Conscience Foundation (ACF) in recognition of his contribution to the world’s interfaith dialogue and religious freedom. Among Cabinet members accompanying the President were Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, State Secretary Sudi Silalahi and Industry Minister MS Hidayat.
In the early years of his presidency, President Yudhoyono introduced the concept of Indonesia’s international identity; Islam, democracy and modernity should work together simultaneously. Amid religious extremism and terrorism across the globe, Indonesia is often seen by the international community as the face of an ideal model of Islam.
"We should be thankful because the world saw even though there are many weaknesses in our country, the foundation gives an award for our democracy development, my commitment as a president to build peace and settle conflicts peacefully, tribute to human rights in general and roles in international dialogues,” the president said at the Halim Perdanakusuma Airport before taking off to Sweden.
The foundation has handed out its "world statesman" award for decades, without controversy, to leaders such as British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.
Kissinger, who just celebrated his 90th. birthday on May 27, handed out the award to President Yudhoyono. President Barack Obama sent him a letter praising his award, so did East Timor's former president, Jose Ramos-Horta, who led the country to independence from Indonesian administration in 1999.
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia, center, is being presented
with a World Statesman Award by former Secretary of State Henry
Kissinger, left, and Appeal of Conscience Foundation President Rabbi
Arthur Schneier, right, Thursday, May 30, 2013 in New York.
Photo: Jason DeCrow
Short Remarks Immediately upon Accepting The World Statesman Award 2013
SHORT REMARKS BYH.E. SUSILO BAMBANG YUDHOYONO
IMMEDIATELY UPON ACCEPTING
THE WORLD STATESMAN AWARD CONFERRED BY
THE APPEAL OF CONSCIENCE FOUNDATION
NEW YORK, 29 MAY 2013
Rabbi Arthur Schneier
Your Excellency Henry Kissinger
Distinguished Guests,
I humbly accept this World Statesman Award. Let me thank Rabbi Schneier and the Appeal of Conscience Foundation for this award. Your work and dedication have and will continue to inspire the cause for peace and mutual understanding throughout the world.
In my view, a statesman works in pursuit of what he believes is right and not on the basis of popularity based on opinion surveys. He works beyond politics in taking risks and facing challenges.
Moreover, statesmanship does not need to always be exercised by a single person. Statesmanship can be collective. And it is the collective statesmanship of Indonesians of all walks of life that makes Indonesia progress and prosper.
Thus, I accept this award on behalf of the Indonesian people. May this award provide momentum for us to continue our endeavor in the promotion of humanity and the common good of peoples. May the hard work and resolve of all Indonesians further encourage us to achieve the dreams of our founding fathers: a harmonious society bonded in peace and prosperity.
Thank you.
Happy 90th. birthday , Henry Kissinger
Rabbi Arthur Schneier's Appeal of Conscience Foundation gave President Yudhoyono the award on Thursday..He implicitly noted the controversy, saying, "You fully understand that the work is not complete. This is just a step in the right direction."
President Yudhoyono accepted the award in
the name of all of Indonesia, saying "statesmanship can be collective."
He said he hoped for "a harmonious society founded in peace and
prosperity."
The Associated press
Following
the acceptance remarks, Rabbi Schneier also read out a special message
from the President of the United States Barrack Obama.
"I congratulate my friend, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on receiving the 2013 World Statesmen award. Not only has he worked to advance the ideal of interfaith, tolerance, democracy within his
own country, President Yudhoyono has also brought them to the global
stage through tireless diplomacy and initiatives, such as the Bali
Democracy Forum.
"And
through his efforts President Yudhoyono has moved us closer to a world
where all people have a right to express themselves, proactive their
faiths, assemble without fear, choose their leaders freely and fairly,
and live in peace and security" Barrack Obama President of the United States
Following
the conferment ceremony, the award recipients proceeded with a special
dinner, where the room was filled to the maximum capacity with
foreigners and Indonesians.
Also
attending the meeting was also Dr Henry Kissinger and Deputy United
Nations Secretary General Jan Eliasson, who was also present in the
morning meeting with the Secretary General Ban Kin-mun. Minister Eliasson also conveyed the congratulatory remarks from the UN Secretary General to President SBY.
Before
continuing with the main events of the evening, four dignitaries of
faith were invited to deliver their prayer, including one prayer from
Indonesia's own Imam Syamsi Ali of the Cultural Center and mosque on
96th Street New York City.
Following the procession of events, Dr Henry Kissinger delivered a special message during the event.
"I see various evolutions of Indonesia through its various achievement" Dr Kissinger began, as he started to look over his notes. "Mr Su.. Siii low Bam bang You do yo no. I'm sorry, I can't pronounce your name. But I shall call you SBY, because your name is a symbol in Asia and South East Asia" Kissinger introduced, and the audience cheered and clapped. Henry Kissinger just turned 90 years old that very Monday.
"I've
been an academic, and Ive been in a Statesman position, in any rate
when they say you're a Secretary of State, that makes you a statement. I
would like to emphasize one distinction. The academic can pick his
subject. He can work on them as long as he wishes, and he is responsible
only to his own perception. The political leader cannot pick his
subject. Many of them are imposed on him. He cannot achieve the perfect
solution because he has to balance many nuances. So, the issues that any
political leaders faces is how to keep in mind ultimate moral
objectives, but then how to work with them as a series of discrete
events that gradually lead to its desired goals." Kissinger introduces
"Now SBY has a great role in this enterprise" Kissinger underlines
"First
because of the importance of building a democracy, in a country of
hundreds of islands, some of different ethnic background, and how to
achieve the uniform perception, without which a democracy finds
difficult to operate, is a whole daunting problem in Indonesia, than
almost anywhere else.
"And the role of Indonesia is so important because, the world is now undergoing a fundamental transformation" Kissinger stated.
"In history the various regions of the world operated, in effect, in
isolation from each other. There was no real connection, between the
Chinese Empire and the Roman Empire. And this went on for hundreds of
years. And after the world
became into a collective, it was one region, Maby Europe, that
dominated. But now for the first time in history, we have several
regions developing concurrently, and then inter-acting with each other.
So, the groupings they form, and the impacts they have, first, on each
other, and then on the rest of the world, are very decisive"
"Indonesia
is part of many groupings. And that is not an accident. But it is of
particular importance in the ASEAN grouping, of South East Asian States.
Because to the extent that these States can act together, they can then
play an even larger role in the relationship of States that develops
around the world" he added
"Now
several of South East Asias leaders have written to the Appeal of
Conscience to express their views of the role that SBY has played. I
should try to read two excerpts. One from Aung San Suu Ky, the heroic
lady from Burma. she said -
"A
statesman, especially in the context of a developing country in the
process of democratization, must possess the tenacity to handle a
multitude of challenges. A statesman can balance freedom and fundamental civil rights with tranquility, rule of law and economic prosperity. President Yudhoyono is such a statesman"
"And
another letter that was written from the former President of East
Timor, who referred to the fact that the separation between East Timor
and Indonesia was very painful for both sides, and he said-
"We
crossed that fragile bamboo bridge with the weight of our history
weighing down on us. We met half way, embraced and decided to heal the
wounds of the past with the hopes and promises of the future".
"So this is the perception that leading democratic figures are having of the role from South East Asia, of the role of SBY" Kissinger concluded.
"When
SBY was elected President, it was in a period in which inflation, and 6
years before that, had been 65%. When the vast challenge for past unity
loomed in an acute manner. And when terrorism was beginning to replace its head with the attacks in Bali and elsewhere" Kissinger described.
"And now Indonesia has made considerable progress. It
is dealing with its domestic issues within the hopes and expectation of
the world community. Indonesia have maintained a leadership role in a
whole group, of a variety of international groups, I referred to
Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN. It was host of the East Asia Summit
last year and it contributed a very symbolic act by inviting the United
States to participate in the East Asian Summit" Kissinger pointed out.
"So
the point I'm making is that, here is a country of tremendous vitality,
of great complexity, that has had to do, to take a difficult journey,
they have had to devise a language, a common language when it became
independent, within the lifetime of establishment" Kissinger summarises
"And SBY has been a factor for international understanding; A practitioner of moderation. Who
also recognises the point that the Rabi made and what I also tried to
emphasise, of moving forward in our world, by a series of nuances, but
inextricably, towards common goals for humanity" the crowd clapped their hands
"And so it is a great pleasure for me to be able to help confer the World Statesman Award" Dr Kissinger concludes his remarks
Before giving the floor to President SBY, Rabbi Schneier also made a short remark.
"For
the steps he has taken to further advance human rights and tolerance in
Indonesia. The core objectives of the Appeal of Foundation, we all
recognize the road ahead, we all recognize we haven't reached the end of
our journey, tonight's honor is really an encouragement to you --Mr
President, with all our blessing, May you lead your nations to guarantee
the rights and protection of all your citizens, regardless of their
faiths, or the house of worship of which they pray. This is our prayer" Rabbi Schneier proudly announces.
"And
above all, can we just greet the First Lady for a moment? Mdm Ani, your
husband could not have achieved this without your support and backing.
May you continue to be a blessing for peace and harmony. Mr President
don't you agree? I must say I cannot have achieved either without my
First Lady" Rabbi Schneier invites Bu Ani to stand, and the audience cheers and claps their hands again
"So
blessing and best wishes. May you continue to be the inspiration on the
world scene, as you have done for peace, harmony and cooperation. So
that we stand together, working together, working together, for mutual
understanding and respect and peace in the world. let us welcome the
President" Rabbi Schneier announced.
In
President SBY remarks he mentioned the struggle of the Indonesian
people, especially in the past 15 years to recover from a economic
meltdown, a political reformation and national transformation to become
the new Indonesia for the new millennium.
"Thank you Rabbi Arthur Scheneier, thank you Dr. Kissinger, for your very kind and generous introduction. I
remember when I met Dr Kissinger, around 11 years ago in Singapore, we
discussed a lot of things, mainly in the development of geopolitics in
the region, and I was inspired by his short analyses about regional
dynamism and I remember that, with inspirations coming from Dr
Kissinger, I am pleased now to make Indonesia to be part of the
maintenance of peace stability and order in the region, in South East
and East Asia.
"I
commend the Appeal of Conscience Foundation for its remarkable
dedication in building bridges of peace and understanding for humanity. I
am humbled by the recognition that the ACF is giving to Indonesia
through me tonight. My wife Ani and I also wish to thank all our guests here for joining us and for your friendship for Indonesia.
"But
before I go on, please accept our deepest condolences for the terrible
loss of life and suffering caused by the Oklahoma tornado; and also for
the horrific bombing of Boston marathon before that. I have no doubt that America will again show her resilience and bounce back even stronger. I was also saddened by the brutal killing of a British soldier in London recently. Upon
hearing the news, I spoke with British Prime Minister David Cameron to
express my condolences -- such act of barbaric violence has no place in
any peace-loving religion.
"These events reinforce the common challenges that bind us together. The challenge of peace. The challenge of justice, including economic justice. The challenge of freedom, democracy and human rights. The
challenge of attaining harmony among civilizations. The challenge of
eradicating global poverty through sustainable development
"The
good news is that there is a new globalism among nations and civil
societies that hopefully would elevate international efforts to meet
these challenges. As part of
that new globalism, I have been privileged to co-chair a UN Panel that
today submitted its final report to the UN Secretary-General on the
vision and shape of global development agenda after 2015.
"But global efforts will not go very far unless national and local leaders do their part. And it is at the national and local levels where things can become much more complex.
"Indonesia is one such example. We
are one of the most ethnically diverse nation in the world, home of a
quarter billion people who profess to the world’s 5 major religions,
living across our 17,000 islands. And from day one of our independence, we have always aspired to be a nation united in diversity. A nation where citizens of various race, faith and creed live together in harmony. A nation based on the rule of law.
"All these core principles are enshrined in our Constitution, and in our state ideology : Pancasila. And our ability to live by these ideals would determine not just our progress but also our survival as a nation.
"Today, we have come a long way in realizing such a vision. But it did not come easy. We did it by hard work, courage and determination. Just 15 years ago, at the start of our democratic transition, we faced multidimensional crises. Economic collapse. Political turmoil. Social unrest. Separatism. Communal conflicts. Ethnic violence. Terrorism. The situation was so severe that some predicted that Indonesia would be the next Balkan – broken to pieces.
"But the people of Indonesia resolutely defied that doomsday scenario. One by one, we fixed our problems. We resolved the separatist conflict in Aceh which had gone on for 30 years. We repaired our broken relations with East Timor. We restored political stability. We strengthened our democratic institutions. We
introduced a law to end discrimination in Indonesia. Our once-sick
economy recovered to become the largest economy in Southeast Asia,
The crowd began to clap their hands, as the President paused.
"and the second fastest growing in the G-20 today after China. And a thriving civil society anchors our democracy. As a result, Indonesia is often said to be one of the most successful transformation stories of the 21st century. And our democratic success has brought strategic benefits to the region and beyond.
"So, Alhamdulillah, things are on the upswing for us. But our democracy is still a work-in-progress. And our nationhood is constantly tested. Maintaining peace, order, and harmony is something that can never be taken for granted.
"We are still facing a number of problems on the ground. Pockets of intolerance persist. Communal conflicts occasionally flare up. Religious sensitivities sometimes give rise to disputes, with groups taking matters into their own hands. Radicalism still exists on the fringe. This,
I believe, is a problem that is not exclusive to Indonesia alone, and
may in fact be a global phenomenon. To be sure, we have more work to do. We shall continue to advance Indonesia’s transformation, while tackling these problems.
"As
we move forward, we will not tolerate any act of senseless violence
committed by any group in the name of religion. We will not allow any
desecration of places of worship of any religion for whatever reason.
The crowd once again gave him applause and cheered up for the President.
"We
will always protect our minorities and ensure that no one suffers from
discrimination. We will make sure that those who violate the rights of
others will face the arms of justice.
"We
will do all we can to preserve a nation where hundreds of ethnic
groups, and all God’s children - Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists
and Confucianists and other faiths - live as one in freedom and
brotherhood.
"And
Indonesia will always be a country where places of worships are in
abundance. Presently we have over 255.000 mosques. We also have over
13.000 Hindu temples, some 2.000 Buddhist temples, and over 1.300
Confucian temples. And—this may surprise you—we have over 61.000
churches in Indonesia, more so than in Great Britain or Germany.
The audience and the crowd again clapped their hands louder with whispering chatter following the Presidents remarks.
"And many of these places of worships are often found on the same street.
"Externally, Indonesia will continue to be a force for peace and progress. As
a nation invested in world peace, Indonesia will continue to send
peacekeeping missions to conflict areas all over the world.
"As
the country with the world’s largest Muslim population, we will do our
best to build more bridges between the Islamic and western worlds.
Here the audience clapped their hands again, but louder than before.
"As
a nation with a long history of tolerance, Indonesia will always be a
strong voice for moderation, which we believe is the best antidote for
extremism.
"As
the world’s third largest democracy, we are setting a good example that
democracy, Islam and modernity can go together in positive symbiosis.
Again the audience clapped their hands loudly, as if anticipating the next words of the President.
"As a nation built on the foundation of religious harmony, Indonesia will be at the forefront of inter-faith cooperation. Next year, Indonesia will host the Alliance of Civilizations conference in Bali. And
we are actively promoting Abrahamic unity so that all the offspring of
Abraham can finally live together in total peace in the 21st century.
The
audience slightly caught off guard spontaneously clapping their hands at
the Indonesian President, as if welcoming his gestures of world peace.
"Let me leave you with a final thought. Building
a tolerant society is a matter of good statecraft. It requires a good
mix of persuasion and law enforcement. When violence occurs, justice
must prevail. However, based on our experiences in Indonesia, enforcing
the law alone is not enough. Hearts and minds have to be won. Old
stereotypes have to be broken. A culture of tolerance and an inclusive
approach has to be constantly promoted.
"And
this is something that no leader can do alone. This is something that
requires the collective work of a large pool of leaders, of all
persuasion, and in all fields doing their statecraft to lead and inspire
those who follow them.
"After all, good leaders are those who stand courageously at the front line, and shine a light of hope to the future. Let us then work together in this pursuit of a better world. Thank you.
The
audience and crowds clapped their hands in loud and extended duration.
As the President stepped down from the podium, the audience began to
stand up as they continued clapping. This demonstration of appreciation lasted well over a minute before the President sat again next to Dr Kissinger.
Other
world leaders also submitted their support to SBYs World Statesmanship
Award apart from President Barrack Obama, President Ramos Horta and Aung
San Suu Ky, namely President Lee Myung Back, OIC Secretary General
Ekmeleddin Ihsanouglu, and also Nobel Peace Winner Muhammad Yunus.
Through out the evening many guest approached the table of President SBY and First Lady Ani Bambang Yudhoyono. In many instances, the guests lined up to introduce themselves and the possibility to take pictures. And when the President was unavailable at the moment, the guest would line up to meet Indonesia's First Lady. Often speaking loudly yet inaudibly as the crowded room was filled with noise and enthusiasm.
Retiring
early for the evening, President SBY and Madame Ani had walked slowly
with Rabbi Schneier and Mrs Schneier walked slowly through the crowds
out of the hotel lobby. Before
entering the Secret Service assigned limousine, President SBY and Madam
Ani Bambang Yudhoyono again was greeted by a cheerful crowd of
supporters standing across the road from the hotel, calling out and
hoping to shake his hands and take pictures together. The President and his entourage returned to the One UN hotel at about 2230 hours. They were scheduled to leave New York the following afternoon, thus completing the New York visit of 54 hours.
Yudhoyono met with the top executives one-on-one at the Grand Hotel Stockholm.
They were Ulf Berg, CEO of investment and trade council Business Sweden; Jacob Wallenberg, chairman of investment firm Investor AB; Hans Vestberg, president CEO of telecommunication company Ericsson; as well as Ingvar Feodor Kamprad and Mikael Ohlsson, founder and president of furniture maker IKEA.
Sweden is an important Scandinavian partner, as of January, at least 77 Swedish companies were operating in Indonesia.
Total trade between the two countries reached US$1.46 billion in 2012, mostly attributed to Swedish exports to Indonesia. The trade volume in 2012 represented a 28 percent increase from $1.05 billion in 2011.
On Tuesday, Yudhoyono met with King Carl XVI Gustav, Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and parliament speaker Per Westerberg.
“Discussions covered cooperation in new sectors such as healthcare, science and technology, as well as world peacekeeping efforts,” presidential spokesman for foreign affairs Teuku Faizasyah said in a statement made available on Wednesday.
According to him, Reinfeldt also told Yudhoyono that aerospace and defense company Saab Group had planned to offer engineering doctoral scholarships to 50 Indonesians starting from 2014.
Members of Indonesian jazz band White Shoes and the Couples Company, who happened to be having a concert in Sweden, appeared at the hotel entrance when the President and First Lady Ani Yudhoyono were on their way to attend a state dinner hosted by the prime minister on Tuesday evening.
Yudhoyono’s delegation departed for New York on Wednesday afternoon, local time.
The President chaired the final meeting of the United Nations’ (UN) high-level panel on the post-2015 development agenda themed "The Way Forward and Political Consensus" on Wednesday, at the United Nations Headquarters, along with Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Indonesia's Antara news agency reported
He said that following the discussion ,the final report on the Post 2015 Development Agenda would be submitted to the United Nations' Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to be discussed by the UN member countries.
"The document which I will submit to the UN secretary general is a report: `One World: A Global Partnership for Sustainable Development & Poverty Eradication`."
The submission of the report to the UN secretary general will mark the end of the task and the mandate of the Panel which has previously held four meetings in New York (September 2012), London, Britain (November 2012), Monrovia, Liberia (February 2013) and Bali, Indonesia (March 2012).
After submitting the report, President Yudhoyono would also attend the UN General Assembly's session to have briefing with regard to the output of the Panel's work.
UN Headquarter, New York, USA, 30-5-2013
Briefing on the Report of the UN HLP of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda
BRIEFING BY
DR. SUSILO BAMBANG YUDHOYONO
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA
TO THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
ON THE REPORT OF THE UN HIGH-LEVEL PANEL OF EMINENT PERSONS ON
THE POST-2015 DEVELOPMENT AGENDA
TRUSTEESHIP COUNCIL CHAMBER
UN HEADQUARTERS
NEW YORK, 30 MAY 2013
Mr. President,
Mr. Secretary-General,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I thank you for the invitation to brief the General Assembly on the Report of the UN High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.
I would like to focus my briefing on the two aspects of the Report: its process of preparation and its substances.
Let me begin with the preparation process of the Report.
A year ago, Mr. Secretary-General established a High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda. He also appointed me, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom as Co-Chairs of the Panel.
The establishment of the Panel is part of the Secretary-General’s post-2015 initiative mandated by the 2010 Millennium Development Goals Summit. And its objective is clear: to prepare a bold yet practical vision on a post-2015 development agenda. An agenda that places at its core shared responsibilities for all countries, and the fight against poverty and sustainable development.
Today, on behalf of the Panel and the other two Co-Chairs, I am pleased to inform you that the Panel has successfully completed its mandate. And this morning I had submitted the Report to Mr. Secretary-General.
Compared to other UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panels, the working period of this Panel was relatively short. However, we managed to convene five consecutive meetings: in New York in September 2012; in London in November 2012; in Monrovia in February 2013; in Bali in March 2013; and lastly, in New York yesterday to formally adopt the report.
Throughout these meetings, the Panel conducted rigorous and constructive discussions and consultations on the structure, narrative, and substances of the report. And through these meetings—in collaboration with the Panel’s Secretariat—we were able to sharpen the report from time to time.
We have also carried out extensive open and inclusive consultations, involving not only the UN system but also extensive stakeholders. From civil society groups to parliamentarians, the private sector, academia, research institutions, women, and youths from all regions.
The Panel has also listened carefully to views of farmers, workers of informal sector, migrants, people with disabilities, small business owners, women entrepreneurs, young people and children, and many more.
I note that the Panel has had the privilege of interacting with more than 5000 organizations from more than 120 countries. The Panel also received and reviewed more than 850 written submissions of comments and inputs. These diverse perspectives have contributed to the immense depth and richness of the Report. These inputs are mostly about what we aspire in 2030 and how to get there.
Through these extensive consultations and outreach, we believe that the Panel report is not merely a product of its 27 members. It is also a reflection of the interests of a wide range of stakeholders—who wish to unshackle the poor from the vicious circle of poverty.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Now let me turn to the substantive aspect of the report.
The Panel is convinced that our vision and responsibility is to end extreme poverty in all its forms. And this is in the context of sustainable development and sustainable growth with equity.
The international community has done a lot in lifting many people out of poverty. Yet, one billion people still live on 1.25 dollars a day or less.
Many people are also still lacking access to nutritious food, quality healthcare and education, as well as basic infrastructure such as fresh water and sanitation. This situation is even worse for women.
In many countries, the situation has also been aggravated by violent conflicts, economic shocks and natural disasters. In the last decade, we have witnessed unprecedented natural disasters induced by climate change, which caused setbacks to the achievements of the MDGs.
Therefore, if we are to cut the vicious circle of poverty, we need to address poverty in all of its manifestations.
Also critical to our efforts to alleviate poverty is a renewed global partnership. A genuine global partnership requires all stakeholders—be it government, private sector, civil society, scholar and international organizations—to have a sense of common purpose and to act in the common interest.
We have taken these points into our consideration as we defined the Post-2015 Development Agenda, including its goals.
And with regard to the goals of the new development agenda, you may find that the annex of the Panel’s Report outlines twelve illustrative goals of the agenda. These goals include:
First, ending poverty;
Second, empowering girls and women, and achieving gender equality;
Third, providing quality education and lifelong learning;
Fourth, ensuring healthy lives;
Fifth, ensuring food security and good nutrition;
Sixth, achieving universal access to water and sanitation;
Seventh, securing sustainable energy;
Eighth, creating jobs, sustainable livelihoods, and equitable growth;
Ninth, managing natural resource assets sustainably;
Tenth, ensuring good governance and effective institutions;
Eleventh, ensuring stable and peaceful societies; and
Twelfth, creating a global enabling environment and catalyzing long-term finance.
With these twelve universal goals, we have given the Report a theme ''A New Global Partner-ship: Eradicate Poverty and Transform Economies through Sustainable Development.''
I have to emphasize here that these illustrative goals are not meant to dictate what will be the definitive development goals. It is crystal clear that the definitive development goals are at the hand of Member States during the inter-governmental process.
What appears in the annex is merely the Panel’s attempt to illustrate, based on extensive consultations and outreach, on what development issues need to be prioritized.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Finally, on behalf of the Co-Chairs and members of the Panel, I would like to express our gratitude for the confidence Mr. Secretary-General has bestowed on us in advising him on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.
This report might not be perfect nor satisfactory to all of us. However, we humbly hope that the report could provide fresh ideas and inputs to Mr. Secretary-General and all distinguished Member States about the shape and vision of our development agenda beyond 2015.
I thank you.
Briefing on the Report of the UN HLP of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda
Presidential Special Staff for International Affairs Teuku Faizasyah said earlier that the final meeting would be the culmination of a long process of the drafting of the Panel's report on the vision of the Post 2015 Development Agenda.
"Like the MDGs, the post 2015 development agenda outlined in the panel`s report will become a reference for countries in setting the priorities of their development in the 15 to 20 years to come after 2015," he said.
He would also be conferred with the World Statesman Award by the US based Appeal of Conscience Foundation (ACF) in recognition of his contribution to the world’s interfaith dialogue and religious freedom. Among Cabinet members accompanying the President were Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, State Secretary Sudi Silalahi and Industry Minister MS Hidayat.
In the early years of his presidency, President Yudhoyono introduced the concept of Indonesia’s international identity; Islam, democracy and modernity should work together simultaneously. Amid religious extremism and terrorism across the globe, Indonesia is often seen by the international community as the face of an ideal model of Islam.
"We should be thankful because the world saw even though there are many weaknesses in our country, the foundation gives an award for our democracy development, my commitment as a president to build peace and settle conflicts peacefully, tribute to human rights in general and roles in international dialogues,” the president said at the Halim Perdanakusuma Airport before taking off to Sweden.
They are slated to return to Indonesia on June 2nd. 2013
Updated news from RI State Secretary
Updated news from RI State Secretary
After
conducting the 7-day state visits to Sweden and the United States, President
Yudhoyono and his entourage on June 2nd. Sunday, at 07.36 am arrived at Halim Perdana Kusuma
Airport in Jakarta. The President and his entourage were welcomed by Vice
President Boediono and Mrs. Herawati Boediono, several ministers from the
Second United Indonesia Cabinet, the Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander Agus
Suhartono and the National Police Chief Gen. Timur Pradopo
During
his visit to New York, President Yudhoyono attended and presided over the last
meeting of the High Level Panel (HLP) of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015
Development Agenda at the UN headquarters. He was also entrusted to co-chair the UN Panel
to formulate the upcoming agenda
On the same occasion, President
Yudhoyono, on behalf of the Indonesian people, received the World Statesman
Award 2013 from the Appeal of Conscience Foundation (ACF), which he perceived
as a motivation and an impetus to do better.
setneg.go.id/
The Appeal of Conscience Foundation, founded by Rabbi Arthur Schneier in
1965, has worked on behalf of religious freedom and human rights
throughout the world. This interfaith coalition of business and
religious leaders promotes peace, tolerance and ethnic conflict
resolution. The Foundation believes that freedom, democracy and human
rights are the fundamental values that give nations of the world their
best hope for peace, security and shared prosperity.
Appeal of Conscience delegations have met with religious and government
leaders in Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Bulgaria, People's Republic of
China, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Cuba, Czech
Republic, El Salvador, Germany, Holy See, Hungary, India, Indonesia,
Ireland, Japan, Morocco, Panama, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovak
Republic, Switzerland, Spain, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom and the
former Yugoslavia. The Foundation also hosts delegations from abroad to
acquaint them with the diversity of American religious life and its
contribution to a civil society.
The Appeal of Conscience Foundation has long held that "a crime committed in the name of religion is the greatest crime against religion." The struggle for human rights is ongoing and tolerance can be achieved by promoting open dialogue and mutual understanding. After September 11th, the foundation has rallied religious leaders worldwide to take a stand against terrorism and to use their influence to halt violence and promote tolerance.
Rabbi Arthur Schneier
Rabbi Arthur Schneier is internationally known for his leadership on behalf of religious freedom, human rights and tolerance with specific interest in China, Russia, Central Europe and the Balkans. Founder and President of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation (1965) and spiritual leader of New York's Park East Synagogue (1962), he was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal for "his service as an international envoy for four administrations" and as a Holocaust survivor, "devoting a lifetime to overcoming forces of hatred and intolerance."
A U.S. Alternate Representative to the U.N. General Assembly and Chairman of the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad, he was one of three American religious leaders appointed by President Clinton to start the first dialogue on religious freedom with President Jiang Zemin and other top Chinese leaders (1998.) Rabbi Schneier initiated the Resolution for the Protection of Religious Sites, adopted by the U.N. General Assembly (2001.) and was a member of the U.S. delegation to the Stockholm International Forum for the Prevention of Genocide, Sweden (2004.) Recently, he was appointed to the High-Level Group, Alliance of Civilizations, by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, a distinguished group whose goal is to bridge divisions between societies exploited by extremists and among societies in which prejudices, misconceptions and polarizations threaten international stability and peaceful relations.
Ordained by Yeshiva University he is the recipient of ten honorary doctorates, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and its Religion and Foreign Policy Initiative launched in 2006, and he Asia Society.
Born in Vienna, Austria, March 20, 1930, Rabbi Schneier lived under Nazi occupation in Budapest during World War II and arrived in the United States in 1947. He is married to Elisabeth Nordmann Schneier.
The Appeal of Conscience Foundation has long held that "a crime committed in the name of religion is the greatest crime against religion." The struggle for human rights is ongoing and tolerance can be achieved by promoting open dialogue and mutual understanding. After September 11th, the foundation has rallied religious leaders worldwide to take a stand against terrorism and to use their influence to halt violence and promote tolerance.
Rabbi Arthur Schneier
Rabbi Arthur Schneier is internationally known for his leadership on behalf of religious freedom, human rights and tolerance with specific interest in China, Russia, Central Europe and the Balkans. Founder and President of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation (1965) and spiritual leader of New York's Park East Synagogue (1962), he was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal for "his service as an international envoy for four administrations" and as a Holocaust survivor, "devoting a lifetime to overcoming forces of hatred and intolerance."
A U.S. Alternate Representative to the U.N. General Assembly and Chairman of the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad, he was one of three American religious leaders appointed by President Clinton to start the first dialogue on religious freedom with President Jiang Zemin and other top Chinese leaders (1998.) Rabbi Schneier initiated the Resolution for the Protection of Religious Sites, adopted by the U.N. General Assembly (2001.) and was a member of the U.S. delegation to the Stockholm International Forum for the Prevention of Genocide, Sweden (2004.) Recently, he was appointed to the High-Level Group, Alliance of Civilizations, by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, a distinguished group whose goal is to bridge divisions between societies exploited by extremists and among societies in which prejudices, misconceptions and polarizations threaten international stability and peaceful relations.
Ordained by Yeshiva University he is the recipient of ten honorary doctorates, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and its Religion and Foreign Policy Initiative launched in 2006, and he Asia Society.
Born in Vienna, Austria, March 20, 1930, Rabbi Schneier lived under Nazi occupation in Budapest during World War II and arrived in the United States in 1947. He is married to Elisabeth Nordmann Schneier.
Feb 4, 2013
--
New York, NY: ACF delegation hosted an Indonesia delegation.
Rabbi Schneier was joined by David Schneider, Andrew Scharf, John Ellis,
Antonio Garcia, Rabbi Benjamin Goldschmidt and Amy Roses. The visitors
were invited to the United States under the auspices of the Department
of State's International Visitor Leadership Program
PM of Canada Stephen Harper was bestowed with the 2012 World Statesman Award by ACF on September27th. 2012
This press release is complimentarily posted by Bali Paradise Enterprises.
Our profile at a glance
We generally provide our client a free of charge feature in our blogs and social network .
Terms and Conditions apply
Our client is entitled to have a 2 month FOC advertorial and/or banner
in our blogs
Our profile can also be found on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ambassador-James-Rudyanto/151414884432
We would be delighted to assist you
Terms and Conditions apply
Our client is entitled to have a 2 month FOC advertorial and/or banner
in our blogs
Our profile can also be found on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ambassador-James-Rudyanto/151414884432
We would be delighted to assist you
Cordially yours,
Bali Paradise Enterprises
Translator and Interpreter for business, copy writing , subtitling services and Mobile English & Indonesian Course for one on one and corporate (Corporate In House training) . Ph +623618241599 or mobile : 085737137351
http://balipromotioncenter.blogspot.com
http://weeklyaddressofobama.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/translatorbali
No comments:
Post a Comment