This year, the Diplomatic Reception by the Embassy of Indonesia in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) holds the significance to celebrate Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day and the 30th Anniversary of our bilateral relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Our bilateral cooperation has expanded beyond political solidarity and further to encompass significant economic collaboration. The total value of bilateral trade in 2023 reached USD 16,1 million, an increase of 28% compared to the trade value in 2022.
As of July 2024, 546 citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina have visited Indonesia, an increase of 25% compared to the total visits in July 2023,” said his Excellency Roem Kono, Ambassador of Indonesia to BiH.
These significant achievements are certainly due to the continuous efforts of the Indonesian Embassy in Sarajevo in promoting the diverse potential and advantages of Indonesian products, services, and tourist destinations, such as, the Indonesian Weekend.
His Excellency added that he is proud that Indonesia is increasingly recognized in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The closeness between the two countries is also well established through people-to-people relationships, including marriages between Indonesian and Bosnian citizens, which continue to grow each year.
”In 2024, it is already more than 55 couples with more than 35 children born from these couples. In the future, their children will become the real diplomats for both countries,” Kono explained.
Also, he noted that he is pleased to note the high demand for Indonesian Workers. Compared to 2023, the presence of Indonesian Workers in Bosnia and Herzegovina increased by 125% in 2024.
“As the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bosnia and Herzegovina, I am trying my utmost to explore all avenues of bilateral cooperation, from trade to defense, as well as, education and interfaith dialogue. I am pleased to acknowledge that all levels of government and stakeholders in Bosnia and Herzegovina have enthusiastically welcomed in embracing any cooperation opportunities with Indonesia. I hope that this cooperation will enhance mutual growth and prosperity, as well as strengthen the people-to-people ties between the two countries,” he explained.
“I would also like to appreciate and acknowledge the hard works of the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina to join the European Union. I wish for a more advanced and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina, together with the European Union,” Ambassador concluded.
This year, the Indonesian Government has adopted the theme “Indonesia Maju Nusantara Baru” (New Nusantara Advanced Indonesia), highlighting the country’s preparations for three key milestones: the upcoming leadership and governance transition in Indonesia; the relocation of the capital city from Jakarta to Nusantara; and the implementation of strategic programs.
“Indonesia values its independence with a strong determination to be a great nation with a rapidly growing economy; with a thriving democracy; and with a diversity that flourishes in harmony,” he added.
Ambassador spoke about the ‘“Golden Indonesia 2045”, the roadmap towards a prosperous, just, wealthy, and sustainable nation, adding that tge first half of 2024, has shown encouraging economic indicators such as that Indonesia’s economic growth reached 5,05%; Indonesia’s GDP reached USD 5.271; Inflation at a controlled, recorded at only 2,13%; and that Indonesia’s economic competitiveness ranks 27th globally.
He added that Indonesia values its independence by upholding a “Free and Active” foreign policy. Amidst current geopolitical turbulence, where conflicts and rivalries are tearing the world apart, sense of humanity is ignored, and the rule-based international order has lost its meaning, Indonesia calls upon the world to unite and take action against violence and injustice.
“Indonesia strives to be a trusted friend to all nations to aspire and fulfill their independence. Indonesia hopes that conflicts, wars, and genocides will no longer occur anywhere in the world. As a form of concrete action in this spirit, Indonesia will not back down or cease its support for the struggle of the Palestinian people to achieve their independence,” he concluded.
Photo: Embassy of Indonesia in BiH
