JAKARTA. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono says Indonesia encourages Asia-Pacific countries to join the Open Government Partnership (OGP), a movement that is aimed at promoting openness, accountability and transparency to establish an effective government.

“Only 10 Asia Pacific countries are OGP members. We want more countries to join with this movement so that our voices can be represented well via the OGP,” Yudhoyono said in his remarks during the opening of the OGP Asia Pacific Regional Conference at Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center on Tuesday, as quoted by Antara.

The President said the role of the OGP, especially in Asia Pacific, was crucial as it wielded influencing power to facilitate the sharing of ideas, expertise and lessons learned on the issue of government transparency.

“I believe this region is crucial to promoting the OGP. I’m sure Asia Pacific can be a global growth machine. Together, we declare an Asia Pacific that is prosperous, stable, dynamic, inclusive and oriented to the future,” said Yudhoyono.

The conference, which is aimed at promoting new potentials in the region and strengthening efforts to support good governance and better public participation, is set to take place from May 6 to 7.

Indonesia co-chairs the conference together with Mexico. Hundreds of delegates from government institutions and civil society organizations and private entities will attend the conference. (ebf)

Editor: Asnil Amri