Message from Ambassador of Republic of Indonesia to Kingdom of Cambodia, H.E. Dr Santo Darmosumarto, on the occasion of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day
- nicholastan788
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Indonesians all over the world will celebrate the 80th anniversary of our country’s independence on 17 August 2025.
The theme of our celebration is “United and Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advanced Indonesia.” As a strong, independent, and unified country, we, the people of Indonesia, are committed to advancing our nation and bringing prosperity to our people.
Throughout our years of independence, the Indonesian people have upheld the conviction that peace and development go hand-in-hand. This is also reflected in the way we interact with the international community. And in the case of our friendship with the Cambodian people, we are honoured to have been part of the peace process in Cambodia, which paved the way for the country’s economic development.
I wish to underscore the deepening of our bilateral relations.
First, I deeply value the continued, intensive interactions among the peoples of the two countries, not only among the leaders, but also at the people-to-people level. The most recent highlight was the visit to Jakarta by the Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, last May.
Second, the growing bilateral economic cooperation. For the last two years, bilateral trade has exceeded US$1 billion, which has resulted in Indonesia ranking among Cambodia’s top ten trading partners. At the same time, the Embassy of Indonesia in Phnom Penh is aggressively encouraging Indonesian investors to capture opportunities in areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, food processing, and the halal industry.
Our two governments are committed to expanding market access, simplifying trade procedures, and encouraging joint ventures that create jobs and foster innovation. We also see great promise in partnerships in the digital economy, technology transfer, and food security, where both nations can benefit mutually.
Third, on connectivity, I warmly welcome the possible opening of new direct flight routes, such as Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Bali, which will complement the existing Phnom Penh–Jakarta route. These expanded air links are crucial to facilitating tourism, trade, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people interactions.
Fourth, our partnership in human development. Over the years, beginning in 1993, the Indonesian Government and education institutions have provided scholarships to hundreds of Cambodian students. We believe that a strong nation starts with the quality of its citizens. And we are committed to working together with all stakeholders in building both countries’ human capital.
Fifth, I am heartened to observe the steady growth of the Indonesian community in Cambodia, which is a testament to our deepening social and economic connections. While this trend brings its own challenges – safeguarding our citizens and addressing the rise of transnational crimes – it also presents tremendous opportunities for fostering mutual understanding and advancing cooperation in various sectors.
All in all, as Indonesia approaches the milestone of 80 years of independence, we are confident in our unwavering partnership with Cambodia – walking side by side, grounded in the enduring values of unity, peace, and shared prosperity. Together, we hold the potential to build a future where our peoples thrive in harmony, driving sustained peace and inclusive progress across generations.
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