By Mewati Sitaram
On 29 August 2024, His Excellency Edy Wardoyo, the Indonesian Consul-General in Mumbai, hosted a reception at Garware Club House, Wankhede Stadium, to mark the 79th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence and the 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Indonesia and India.
In his address, H.E. Wardoyo highlighted significant developments for 2024, including the relocation of Indonesia’s capital city to Nusantara, situated in a more central location within the country, and the upcoming inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto in October 2024.
Economic ties between the two nations remain robust, with bilateral trade surging by an impressive 48% to reach US$38.8 billion for the 2022-2023 period. Both countries are aiming to achieve a US$50 billion trade volume by 2025. Earlier this year, an MoU was signed to facilitate transactions in local currencies (INR and IDR).
Diplomats and consulate family members joyfully playing the Indonesian musical instrument Angklung
Recent statistics reveal that India imported products worth US$29 billion from Indonesia, making it Indonesia’s 4th largest export destination. The trade balance favours Indonesian exports, reflecting the expanding Indian economy and underscoring India’s importance as a global partner.
H.E. Wardoyo emphasized three key aspects of the bilateral relationship: Peace, Prosperity, and People-to-People relations. Peace is characterized by the stability of the partnership, Prosperity is evidenced by the robust trade figures, and People-to-People relations are highlighted by the 100% increase in Indonesian students studying in Maharashtra.
Guests captivated as the national anthem plays
Earlier in 2024, the Indonesian Embassy in New Delhi and the Consulate-General in Mumbai showcased the Kecak Dance from Bali, a performance depicting a segment of the Ramayana epic featuring Rama, Sita, and Hanuman. This dance reflects the shared cultural heritage between the two nations, as the Ramayana is a significant story in both Indonesia and India. Additionally, Indians remain among the top three nationalities visiting Bali, supported by an increasing number of direct flights to Jakarta and Bali.
The evening concluded with an Indonesian buffet, featuring dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Chicken Saté, and Mi Bakso. H.E. Wardoyo wrapped up the event by expressing gratitude to all attendees for their contributions to the India-Indonesia friendship and shared his enthusiasm for the future of the bilateral relationship over the next 75 years.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
