TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) expressed optimism that the next government of President-elect Joko Widodo, better known as Jokowi, will be able to address varied international issues, as reported by Antara News.

Speaking to the press in Washington DC on Saturday morning before departing for Japan, Yudhoyono stated that Jokowi will be able to handle international issues related to economy and the radical ideology of Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

"Our policy is clear that we do not allow radicalism, extremism, and terrorism to exist. We never mix Islam or any other religion with radicalism and terrorism," the president emphasized.

He remarked that Indonesia will apply soft power as a comprehensive approach rather than hard power to address the radical movement.

"No one should consider that the next government of Jokowi is not ready. He is surely ready and will become our leader," President SBY noted.

In connection with the climate change issue as the key topic of discussion at regional and global levels, Yudhoyono was optimistic that Jokowis government will be able to go ahead with it and will be able to strengthen Indonesias stance in various related international forums.

ANTARA