VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

The government of Indonesia is targeting to have Honorary Consuls across the countries on African continent this year. This was affirmed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi after giving directions to several Indonesian Ambassadors to African countries in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Wednesday (April 11^th). She also said that the Indonesian government considers important representation in all countries in Africa. Therefore, the Minister asked the Ambassadors to be able to submit the names of Honorary Consul candidates for the next six months. The Honorary Consuls, according to Minister Retno, play a major role, not only to enhance the cooperation of friendly countries with Indonesia, but also to protect Indonesian citizens in their respective countries.

“Thus to optimize, we plan at least at the end of this year in the majority or all. But, at least, we have already had an honorary consul at important regions in African countries. With that honorary consul, we at least have eyes and ears in the field. In addition to economic affairs, of course, this honorary consul will be very useful for the protection of Indonesian citizens. Because more recently, many Indonesian citizens have been facing problems in African countries, including our crew. If we have an honorary consul, it will be easier for us to respond immediately if there is a problem. Therefore, I have given the target that in 3-4 or the longest 6 months, of course, we have to find the right persons to become consuls of honor,” said Retno Marsudi.

In addition, in her meeting with Indonesian Ambassadors to African countries, Minister Retno Marsudi also explained that the Indonesian government has assigned special task force to the Indonesian Ambassadors in Africa to focus on improving economic cooperation between Indonesia and African countries. Minister Retno emphasized that it’s important for the Ambassadors to follow-up the results of the meetings of all series of Indonesia-Africa Forum 2018, after they return to the respective country where they are on duty. (VOI/Ndy/Trans by Rezha)