RI asks to host JCI meeting

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia has made a proposal to Junior Chamber International (JCI) to host the organization's 2005 world conference in Bali.

Indonesian Junior Chamber president Rainer Prakuso Tobing said on Thursday he was optimistic the proposal would be accepted, following the country's success in hosting JCI's Asia-Pacific conference two years ago.

The world conference is held by JCI every year to discuss global entrepreneurship and economic issues, and to give awards to 10 individuals "who best exemplify the finest attributes of the world's young people".

"Thus far, we don't have any competitors," Rainer said during a media conference, which was also attended by 2001 JCI president Georges A. Bouverat.

Rainer said about 7,000 delegates from over 100 JCI nation members were expected to attend the conference, which would provide participants the opportunity to make business deals and for Indonesia to boost its tourism.

Established in 1944 in Mexico, JCI is a non-governmental organization for young professionals and entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 40. (05)