VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Indonesia and Russia celebrated the 70th Anniversary of their diplomatic relations on Monday (3/2), with the unveiling of the “Necklace of the Equator” featuring Russian artworks depicting Indonesian culture. Officials from both countries opened the event with speeches, a reception, and a ribbon cutting ceremony, before visitors were invited for a first look at the artwork, along with a historical archive of photographs and documents from the 20th Century. The Acting Deputy Minister of American and EU Affairs from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Teuku Faizasyah, highlighted the ties of respect between the nations and their opportunities moving into the future.

Former President Soekarno decided to build this gallery following his first visit to Russia in 1956, which included a visit to an art gallery in Russia. As we reflect on our relations, we can see that there are ups and downs. But we can say with confidence that there are growing optimisms for what we can do together as friends. The bilateral relations of our twocountries has entered a new phase, with the signing in 2003 of a declaration of the regulation of friendly and participation.

The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Lyudmila Vorobieva and the event’s curator Vladimir Nikolaevich Anisimov also expressed their happiness for the “great success” of the event. The exhibit displayed details of the good relationship between former President Soekarno and the Soviet Union following Indonesia’s independence declaration in the 1950’s. Also featured were colourful artworks by Russian artists O. Melnivoka, Anna Miloserdova, and V Popov, among others. (VOI/LAURA GREEN/AHM)