The recent dialogue forum titled “Development in Indonesia: Lessons Learned from Papua and for the Pacific” took place successfully in Suva, Fiji. The event brought attention to the development achievements in the Indonesian province of Papua, emphasizing the region’s vibrant local culture and the substantial progress made in Indonesia’s eastern-most territory.
Prominent speakers from Papua were featured at the forum, sharing valuable insights into the social and economic advancements of the region. The audience was diverse, comprising Church leaders, community group representatives, alumni of the Indonesia Scholarship Fiji, Fijian students, government officials, NGOs based in Fiji, Indonesian students studying in Fiji, think tanks, local media, and members of the Fiji Indonesia Friendship Association.
Indonesian Ambassador to Fiji, Dupito Simamora, noted that the forum was crafted to foster engaging discussions and encourage innovative perspectives on sustainable development models that might align between Papua and Fiji. Civil engineering professional and President of the Indonesia Scholarship Fiji Alumni, Sokovoli Ordovakavula, highlighted the uniqueness of Indonesia’s development initiatives specific to Papua and suggested that these could offer relevant lessons for Fiji’s own social and economic enhancement efforts.
Additionally, Serupepeli Udre, the Acting Director for Assets and Infrastructure Services at Fiji’s Ministry of Education, discussed past and prospective collaborations between the governments of Indonesia and Fiji, which may pave the way for meaningful initiatives consistent with Fiji’s national development goals.
This forum underscores the potential for cross-regional learning and cooperation as both Indonesia and Fiji work towards sustainable development in their respective communities. By sharing experiences and strategies, both nations can strengthen their paths toward progress, ultimately benefiting their citizens and fostering greater regional ties.
Overall, the successful dialogue forum signifies hope for future collaborations and the sharing of valuable insights, which could lead to meaningful advancements in development across the Pacific region.
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