Makassar, S.Sulawesi (Antara Bali) - The Australian government plans to commemorate the Australia Day in one of the alleyways in Makassar city, South Sulawesi province.
Both countries enjoy a strong relationship since long.
The head of political and public relations section of the Australian Embassy in Indonesia, Bradley Armstrong, on Monday, explained the importance of Makassar in the eyes of Australians.
"Australia and Bugis-Makassar communities share strong historical ties. In the past, many Bugis-Makassar sailors arrived in Australia and mingled with the natives," he said.
He said traces of Bugis and Makassar are still found in Australia. Even some Australian language have similarities with the local Makassar languages.
According to Armstrong, Australia intends to continue its relationship with Makassar, considering that a historical relationship existed in the past too.
"Moreover, Makassar is one of the strategic cities in Indonesia. It is one of the reasons why the Australian government commemorates the Australia Day in Makassar," he explained.
The Australia Day will be held in Lorong Langgau alleyway, Timungan, Lompoa village, Bontoala district.
"We want to have a cultural exchange. Moreover, we know that the city administration is heavily revitalizing the town alleyways. We want to participate and contribute in this program," Armstrong said.
Meanwhile, Makassar mayor Moh Ramdhan Pomanto warmly welcomed the cooperation offered by the Australian government, including the plan to commemorate the Australia Day in the city.
"It is a very positive program. For Indonesia, Australia is very important, including Makassar. Moreover, we have strong historical ties. Many plans have been discussed, such as film exchanges, sister city arrangement, cultural exchange and education," he said.
The Australian administration will help make arrangements for the alleyways, such as reforestation and creating a productive aisle.(WDY)
