VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOInews, Jakarta: The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) Belgrade held a Diplomatic Reception in commemoration of the 78th Anniversary of Indonesia and the Indonesian Armed Forces on Thursday (5/10/2023). This effort was made to maintain the momentum of closer Indonesia-Serbia relations.

The Diplomatic Reception of the Indonesian Embassy in Belgrade was attended by a number of high-ranking Serbian officials including First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ivica Dacic, and Minister of Regional Development, Edin Djerlek, Heads of Representatives and diplomatic circles as well as international organizations, business circles, other partners and friends of Indonesia in Serbia.

"Indonesia-Serbia cooperation is not only reflected in increased trade, but also includes strengthening political relations, cultural exchanges and educational cooperation," said Indonesian Ambassador to Serbia Mochammad Chandra Widya Yudha, in a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Belgrade received by Indonesia Window here on Friday (6/10/2023).

The year 2023 was marked by improved relations in various sectors, including an increase in trade volume by 227% in the first half of 2023 compared to last year. The collaboration between the two countries also resulted in the inauguration of the document "The First Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Belgrade" as UNESCO's Memory of the World.

"In addition, Serbia's accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in South East Asia (TAC) reflects Serbia's recognition of ASEAN principles and values promoted in Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023," the Indonesian Embassy in Belgrade wrote.

The close socio-cultural ties between Indonesia and Serbia were also reflected in the cultural performances at the Diplomatic Reception, which fully involved the Serbian community in showcasing Indonesian language, culture and arts. This included choir groups, dance groups and gamelan groups.

"Partnerships and cooperation in various sectors are increasingly opening up opportunities for people-to-people-contact interactions," Ambassador Chandra said.

Furthermore, according to him, people-to-people-contact that is fostered continuously through the facilitation of various scholarships from the governments of the two countries, has also further increased understanding of each other, as a basic capital for increasing the diplomacy of Indonesia and Serbia to a further stage. (VOI/Andy)