ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Twelve newly appointed Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary from friendly nations have officially begun their diplomatic missions in Indonesia after presenting their Letters of Credence to President Prabowo Subianto during an official ceremony held at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Friday, November 7, 2025.
The ambassadors were welcomed with a vibrant Rampak Kendang traditional dance performance from West Java at the palace courtyard. The ceremony proceeded with the playing of each country’s national anthem, followed by the formal presentation of credentials to the President.
The twelve ambassadors officially received by President Prabowo were:
1. Barbara Szymanowska, Republic of Poland
2. Khalid Jassim Alyassin, State of Kuwait
3. Gladys Kamia Isihanua, Solomon Islands
4. Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, Islamic Republic of Pakistan
5. Sharon Ann Lennon, Ireland
6. Tornike Nozadze, Georgia
7. Bernardo de Sicart Escoda, Kingdom of Spain
8. Salem Ahmed Balfakeeh, Republic of Yemen
9. Francisco de la Torre Galindo, Mexico
10. Ralf Beste, Federal Republic of Germany
11. Patrick Hemmer, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (Non-Resident)
12. Muhammetnyyas Mashalov, Republic of Turkmenistan (Non-Resident)
During the occasion, the ambassadors expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Indonesia across various sectors, including the economy, education, culture, and defense.
Polish Ambassador Barbara Szymanowska highlighted the 70th anniversary of Indonesia–Poland diplomatic relations, emphasizing close friendship and shared values.
“We are connected not only by our flags—red and white and white and red—but also by our national symbols: Poland’s white eagle and Indonesia’s Garuda, both representing strength, dignity, and independence,” she said.
Kuwaiti Ambassador Khalid Jassim Alyassin described Indonesia as a strategic partner in regional stability and the global economy.
“We aim to elevate our cooperation, especially in investment, trade, clean energy, and food security. Indonesia plays a vital role in global forums such as the G20, OIC, and ASEAN,” he stated.
Pakistani Ambassador Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri underscored the deep-rooted historical ties between Indonesia and Pakistan that predate independence.
“Pakistan and Indonesia have long enjoyed brotherly and friendly relations. My mission is to further strengthen cooperation in defense, trade, and, most importantly, people-to-people connections,” he remarked.
Yemeni Ambassador Salem Ahmed Balfakeeh reflected on the centuries-old connection between Indonesia and Yemen, rooted in migration and shared faith.
“Diplomatic relations between our nations date back to the 7th century when Yemenis, particularly from Hadhramaut, migrated to Indonesia. Today, our cooperation continues in trade, politics, religion, and education,” he said.
Irish Ambassador Sharon Ann Lennon expressed her admiration for Indonesia’s rich culture and artistic diversity, noting opportunities for creative collaboration.
“I hope to foster cultural exchanges between Indonesian and Irish artists in the coming years,” she shared enthusiastically.
German Ambassador Ralf Beste emphasized the importance of understanding Indonesia’s culture to build stronger partnerships.
“I am learning Bahasa Indonesia so I can better understand its people. Indonesians are incredibly friendly—and the food here is amazing,” he said with a smile.
Spanish Ambassador Bernardo de Sicart Escoda also praised the warmth of Indonesians and the country’s natural beauty.
“What I love most about Indonesia are the people—they are warm, open, and always willing to help. I also admire Indonesia’s landscapes and cultural diversity,” he noted.
Through their diplomatic missions, the ambassadors reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening friendship and strategic cooperation with Indonesia—strengthening ties that bring tangible benefits to both nations and their people. (AT Network)
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