Jokowi's State of the Union Speech: Indonesia is a Bridge of World Differences

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said, Indonesia is a country that bridges differences in the world.

He stated this in his State of the Union Address at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Annual Session with the House of Representatives (DPR) and Regional Representative Council (DPD) at the Parliament Complex, Jakarta, Wednesday, August 16.

"Indonesia with its Pancasila, with its diversity of harmony, with its democratic principles is able to present a space for dialogue, able to become a meeting point and bridge differences," said Jokowi.

Jokowi said this could happen because Indonesia was able to face the world crisis for the last three years.

On the other hand, in recent years Indonesia has also been entrusted with hosting international activities, such as the Momentum of Indonesia's Presidency at the G20, Indonesia's Chair in ASEAN, and Indonesia's consistency in upholding Human Rights and Equality.

"(All of this) has boosted and placed Indonesia back on the world map and in the midst of world conditions that are turbulent due to differences," he said.

With various issues that have been faced in recent years, Jokowi believes that Indonesia will be valued more in the future in the eyes of the world.

"Our credibility will be more recognized, our sovereignty will be more respected. Indonesia's voice will be heard more, making it easier for us to negotiate," he said

He also emphasized that these various opportunities must be able to be utilized, because it is not certain that this will happen again in the future.

"It's a big loss for us if we miss this opportunity, because not all countries have it and it's not certain that you will have it again," said Jokowi.