Foreign Leaders Congratulate Indonesia on 75th Independence Day

KOMPAS.com – Foreign governments conveyed their congratulations to Indonesia as the country marked 75 years of its independence on August 17. The United States is among the first countries to convey their well-wishes.

“On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Indonesian people as you celebrate your 75th year of independence on August 17,” said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the US State Department’s website.

“The 75th anniversary is a momentous occasion and a time to recognize the immense strides the Indonesian people have made to emerge as one of the world’s largest democracies and a G20 country,” he added in the statement dated 14 August 14. “It is also a moment to reflect on the long friendship between our nations.”

Also read: A Solemn, Low-Key Ceremony to Mark Indonesia's 75th Independence Day amid Covid-19 Scourge 

Pompeo also highlighted the Indonesia-US strategic partnership, particularly in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, and their “democratic values, economic ties, and our commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific [region]”.

North Korea’s Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un also congratulated Indonesia on its 75th independence day, as did Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.

“[Indonesia] has made great progress in developing [its] national economy and culture and building a prosperous society," Kim said in the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website.

Also read: Bank Indonesia Releases Special Edition Bank Note for 75th Independence Day

He also hoped that Indonesia and North Korea will maintain their close ties.

Saudi Arabia’s rulers likewise conveyed their well-wishes on Indonesia’ independence day.