Jakarta (ANTARA) – As Indonesia commemorated its 81st Independence Day on Monday, August 17, foreign envoys extended their congratulations while reaffirming their countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
In a statement from the Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta, Dutch Ambassador Marc Gerritsen described Indonesia’s 81st anniversary of independence as a milestone worthy of celebration.
He noted that the Netherlands regards Indonesia as both a partner and a friend, reaffirming the Dutch government’s commitment to maintaining its long-standing relationship with Indonesia.
The ambassador also expressed confidence that Indonesia is moving toward a bright future and emphasized his country’s readiness to support that journey.
Also speaking after attending the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony at Merdeka Palace, Pakistani Ambassador Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri conveyed congratulations from the people and government of Pakistan on Indonesia’s 81st anniversary.
He celebrated the enduring ties between Pakistan and Indonesia, saying that the relationship had grown beyond friendship into one of brotherhood.
Chaudhri also praised President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership and commitment to improving living standards across Indonesia. He added that the Prabowo administration had delivered significant socioeconomic progress.
Meanwhile, Egyptian Ambassador Yasser Hassan Farag Elshemy highlighted the historical significance of bilateral relations, noting that Egypt is proud to have been the first country to recognize Indonesia as an independent and sovereign nation in 1945.
Over the past eight decades, he added, Indonesia and Egypt have expanded cooperation in politics, the economy, culture, development, and many other fields. The envoy expressed confidence that the two countries would continue to elevate their multifaceted partnership.
Chargé d’Affaires of the Japanese Embassy Myochin Mitsuru shared a similar sentiment, noting that Indonesia and Japan have long enjoyed deep-rooted historical, economic, and political ties. He also reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to further strengthening relations with Indonesia.
The diplomatic representatives delivered the remarks after joining state officials and members of the public at the ceremony led by President Prabowo, which reenacted the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence.
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Translator: P.T. Violleta, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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