Bandung capital of Asia-Africa

BANDUNG, West Java: The Center of Asia Africa and Developing Countries Study held a panel discussion here Saturday on "Bandung as Peace Messenger and Capital of Asia-Africa" at the Merdeka building.

The discussion, which featured several experts as speakers, was sponsored jointly with the state-run Padjajaran University and the Research and Development Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Antara reported.

The Merdeka building was chosen as the venue for the discussion as it was used to hold the Asia-Africa Conference in 1955.

Haryoto Kunto, one of the experts, said Bandung was no longer as beautiful as it used to be.

"Bandung faces various problems, ranging from traffic jams and poor sanitation. Moreover many historical buildings have disappeared," Haryoto said.

He said the town, which used to be called the Paris of Java, had lost its beauty and charm. (jun)