Bandung capital of Asia-Africa

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)