President Prabowo Subianto formally received 11 new foreign ambassadors at the Merdeka Palace on Friday, marking a significant diplomatic expansion intended to deepen Indonesia’s bilateral cooperation and strategic partnerships on the world stage, ANTARA News reported.
The credential presentation ceremony served as the official commencement of tenures for envoys representing a diverse array of nations and international bodies. The new diplomatic cohort includes representatives from Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Norway, Japan, Switzerland, Malaysia, Finland, the Holy See (Vatican), Suriname, and the European Union.
A Commitment to Mutually Beneficial Partnerships
During the ceremony, President Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia remains fully prepared to foster mutually beneficial ties with international partners. According to a statement released by the Cabinet Secretariat, the President said the nation is ready to engage with the global community through proactive diplomacy.
“The government of Indonesia is open and prepared to strengthen friendships, build partnerships, and develop various mutually beneficial cooperation opportunities with friendly nations.”
The President followed the formal presentation of credentials by hosting the ambassadors for a bilateral meeting and a subsequent reception.
The government aims to use this expanded diplomatic presence to facilitate deeper strategic collaborations. These efforts are expected to yield tangible benefits for the citizens of Indonesia as well as those of the respective partner nations through enhanced bilateral ties.
The Diplomatic Cohort at a Glance
The following nations and entities have officially commenced their diplomatic tenures in Jakarta as of this week:
- Austria
- Bangladesh
- Belgium
- Finland
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Norway
- Suriname
- Switzerland
- The Holy See (Vatican)
- The European Union
Traditional Performances Showcase National Heritage to Diplomatic Corps
The event featured traditional cultural performances designed to showcase the nation’s heritage to the incoming diplomatic corps.
Attendees witnessed a performance of the Zapin Lenggang Kipas dance, a traditional art form originating from Jambi. The cultural showcase was further enhanced by musical accompaniment provided by the Sasando, a traditional stringed instrument native to East Nusa Tenggara.
The ceremony follows a period of significant national reflection, as foreign envoys have recently praised Indonesia while the nation marks 81 years of freedom.
