"There is no country that develops without peace. Peace means respecting each other, living in harmony and implementing our religious values," Kalla said.
Manado, N Sulawesi (ANTARA News) - Vice President M Jusuf Kalla has called on the public to maintain peaceful situation in Indonesia as a requirement to achieve Indonesian development.

"There is no country that develops without peace. Peace means respecting each other, living in harmony and implementing our religious values," Kalla said here on Sunday when delivering opening remarks during Global Christian Youth Conference.

Indonesian people should maintain tolerance to each others and respect diversity.

He added all religions teach goodness and none of them promote cruelty.

Each religion believes the existence of God despite differences in the implementation of worship, Kalla said.

He also noted that reprisal will be occurred to those conducting good or bad behaviors.

Thus, Kalla added, each person should respect differences and promote tolerance to other believers.

"Respecting means not to reproach other religions values and their internal matters. We should respect each people to achieve better future of the nation," Kalla said.

He lauded the people in North Sulawesi Province that can maintain peace and harmony among various religions.

Additionally, Governor of North Sulawesi Olly Dondokambey said the people can maintain peaceful situation due to good cooperation among people, police and Indonesian military, as well as public figures.

Dondokambey noted the people of North Sulawesi are implementing a wise value by respecting each other despite differences.

"We keep respecting God, respecting each people, our selves and the environment because we are Gods creations," the governor said.

Through the celebration of National Harmony Week, the governor hoped other people can learn from North Sulawesi in promoting peace and tolerance.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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