In a diplomatic reception for the anniversary of the 78thof proclamation of Independence of the Republic of Indonesia,the Indonesian Embassy in Damascus organized a diplomatic reception at Dama Rose Hotel.
Ministers, parliamentarians, academics, diplomatic corps, religious leaders, friends of Indonesia attended the reception as well as the Indonesian community.
The ceremony included the presentation of a number of traditional Indonesian dances and songs in addition to honoring the winners of the newspaper article writing competition.
His Excellency,Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Syria, Mr. Wajid Fawzi,said in his speech in this occasion:
Indonesia proclaimed its Independence on August 17, 1945; it means Indonesia disengaged from the colonial powers, which had occupied the territory of Indonesia for about three hundred years.
This year, 2023, Indonesia celebrates the anniversary of the 78th of Independence.
In addition, despite those challenges, Indonesia has worked hard to focus its efforts to achieve political stability and a sustainable economy. Today, Indonesia’s economy ranks 16th among G-20 member countries.
Upon this spirit, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Damascus always focuses on its effort in exploring new initiatives to build cooperation, while at the same time safeguarding the friendship and uplifting the quality of bilateral relationship, between two friendly countries, Indonesia and Syria.
From the beginning Indonesia and Syria have enjoyed friendly and historic relationships. Indonesian and Syrian relationships are based on equality, mutual respect and shared values, which is reflected in the thriving bilateral cooperation and close partnership at the multilateral fora.
Indonesia will never forget how Syria in 1947, supported Indonesia in the UN Security Council during Indonesia’s struggle to defend its independence.
On the other side, during Syria’s hard time, Indonesia shows a clear stance. Indonesia respects the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria, supports the people and government of Syria in their quest for a lasting solution for the challenges facing Syria through a Syria-owned and Syria-led political process.
The distance from Indonesia to Syria is about ten thousand kilometers, but the connection between the people of two countries is immensely deep.
The tremor of the earthquake in Syria last February 2023 was also felt by the heart of the people of Indonesia.
On 22nd of February 2023, about two weeks after the earthquake, the government of Indonesia sent two aircraft, Garuda Indonesia, carrying 75 tons of humanitarian assistance. Still more, nowadays the Embassy is mandated to explore opportunities for Indonesia to join in building schools destroyed by the earthquake.
In the economic field, the Embassy encourages business people of two countries to establish connections.
In this regard, allow me to use this opportunity to invite business people from Syria, to visit Indonesia next month, to explore business opportunities during Trade Expo Indonesia on 18-24 October, and Halal Expo Indonesia on 25-29 October 2023.
The connection between the people of two countries is also indicated by understanding each other. With this spirit, this year 2023, the Embassy organizes many cultural activities.
This is who we are; this is your friend, Indonesia, a land of diversity, and a land of opportunity
Allow me to extend my warmest greetings to the government and people of Syria.
I also use this opportunity to express our sincerest appreciation and to the government and people of Syria for their warm hospitality and support towards Indonesia.
Let us intensify our effort to develop collaboration, cherish our friendship, and nurture our solidarity.
Reported by: Nada Haj Khidr