Peking University Holds Indonesia-China Research Forum
Beijing (ANTARA) — Peking University held its first Indonesia Forum, focused on research and studies about Indonesia, in Beijing from 14 to 20 October.
The event brought together researchers and academics from China, Indonesia, Australia and other countries to exchange views on their research under the theme “Indonesia’s Transition: Development, Society and Regional Order”.
The forum aims to strengthen the foundations of friendship and mutual understanding between China and Indonesia.
It was jointly organised by Peking University’s Institute of Country and Region Studies and several related institutes at the university, with support from Sinar Mas Group, Bank Indonesia’s Beijing representative office and the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Beijing.
Deputy Chief of Mission of the Republic of Indonesia Parulian George Andreas Silalahi delivered remarks at the forum’s open session on Friday (16 October).
“The forum will be a good opportunity to understand Indonesia’s transformation and discuss how Indonesia and China can work together to address the challenges they face. Economic development, social progress and regional prosperity are interconnected, so in-depth academic research and close international cooperation are needed to achieve them,” Parulian said, expressing his appreciation to Peking University for its efforts to promote exchange and research.
Meanwhile, in a speech delivered by video, Zhou Kan, chargé d’affaires ad interim at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Indonesia, highlighted Indonesia’s importance in the region and the world, as well as the need for China and Indonesia to learn more about one another across various fields.
Zhou also expressed hope that the forum would deliver significant benefits to both nations and help foster friendship and mutual understanding in the future.
Peking University said the forum is expected to become a leading platform for research on Indonesia. It is planned as an annual event linking research institutions in China, Indonesia and around the world.
“Studies of countries and regions are of great significance. We hope more young academics and representatives from various countries will gather here and exchange views,” said Professor Zhai Kun, deputy director of Peking University’s Institute of Country and Region Studies.
During the open session, Lili Yan Ing of the International Economic Association presented on potential Indonesia-China cooperation under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as well as in areas such as artificial intelligence and robotics.
Firman Witoelar of the Australian National University discussed Indonesia’s macroeconomic policies in response to various shocks.
Yulian Wihantoro, head of Bank Indonesia’s Beijing representative office, presented the results of financial cooperation, including Local Currency Transactions (LCT) and QR-code-based payments.
The forum also featured an Indonesian cultural exhibition, screenings of Indonesian films, artistic performances, and a dialogue between young people and business figures.