Iran, Indonesia cooperating to enhance inter-religious tolerance: envoy

On Monday, the Indonesian ambassador to Tehran highlighted close collaboration between Iran and his country on promoting Islam as a religion of “blessing for mankind” as well as enhancing “inter-religious tolerance.”, AVA Diplomatic reports.

Making the remarks on the occasion of the 72 anniversary of Indonesia Independence Day celebrated in Tehran’s Milad Tower, Octavino Alimudin noted that Iran and Indonesia began diplomatic relations 67 years ago and ever since have enjoyed a strong a close relations in all areas.

At the political level, the diplomat said there has been exchange of visits of officials of both countries from their presidents to ministers and businessmen.

In the economic sector, he said, both countries have cooperated in the field of oil, gas and energy as well as investment and tourism.

He also expressed gratitude to Iran’s support for Indonesia’s candidature as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council from 2019-2020.

Ambassador Alimudin also read a poem from Ferdowsi whose statue stands out on the porch of Milad Tower.

Official says Indonesia is Iran’s reliable partner in Asia

Among high ranking officials and diplomatic corps at the event was Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Asia and Pacific Affairs Ebrahim Rahimpour who called Indonesia a “reliable partner” for Iran in Asia.

The top official asserted that Iran has been on the side of Indonesia for the past 67 years since the country gained independence.

“Iran is pleased to have been in solid relations with Indonesia as one of the founders of Non-Aligned Movement and a country that has pursued its independent policy from the start.

He then called Indonesia “symbol of moderate Islam” in the world, with having the most Muslim population in the globe. He also appreciated Indonesia for having confronted extremism by reflecting the true image of Islam.