Indonesia’s 80th Independence Anniversary Marked in Ankara
Indonesia celebrated the 80th anniversary of its independence and the 75th anniversary of Türkiye–Indonesia diplomatic relations with a reception in Ankara. Indonesian Ambassador Achmad Rizal Purnama underlined the need to expand trade and investment, stating, “Our trade and investment must grow. Our trade volume is far below our potential.”
M. FERHAT YÜKSEL
The event at the Indonesian Embassy brought together Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş, Chairman of the Council of Elders of the Organization of Turkic States Binali Yıldırım, as well as senior officials, ambassadors, and many guests.
Ambassador Purnama highlighted the depth of bilateral ties. He noted that relations have reached a strategic level: “That is why today is very meaningful, a turning point for us. It is not only a chance to reflect on the progress of our relations, but also an opportunity to map the road to the centennial of our diplomatic ties in 2050, just 25 years from now.”
LEADERS OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH
The Ambassador underlined that Indonesia and Türkiye are home to the world’s largest Muslim populations and are both G20 members: “We are two large nations, leaders of the Global South. As an ambassador, my duty is not only to strengthen bilateral ties but also to fulfill our responsibility toward the Muslim ummah and developing nations. That is why serving in Türkiye is truly an honor for me.”
OUR TRADE VOLUME IS BELOW OUR POTENTIAL
Explaining his vision as ambassador, Purnama said: “Since my arrival, I have adopted what I call a ‘one plus four’ formula. Two years ago, I decided to pursue this approach. First and foremost, we must increase trade and investment. Our trade volume is far below our potential. Together, we represent 360 million people and a combined GDP of 3 trillion USD, yet our trade volume is only 3 billion USD, a very low figure. This is why we must expand trade. Beyond that, we should strengthen cooperation in defense, energy, health, and infrastructure.”
RESPECT FOR THE SPIRIT OF HEROISM
Purnama also spoke about Türkiye’s founding leader, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: “He united the country and fought against colonialism. We respect that spirit of heroism. For the people of Indonesia, Atatürk is honored like our own heroes—a founding leader, a hero who resisted colonialism, and a figure who stood against injustice. Most importantly, he is seen as the man who united the nation.”
A MULTIDIMENSIONAL PARTNERSHIP
Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz also addressed the reception, underlining the importance of defense and military cooperation: “In recent years, we have made significant progress in this area. The KAAN National Combat Aircraft Procurement Agreement, signed under the coordination of our Presidency of Defense Industries, is the clearest and strongest expression of this vision. The KAAN agreement is not only about technology transfer—it represents a multidimensional partnership, from engineering to production, from human resources to infrastructure development.”
The reception, referred to as the “Partnership Day,” featured traditional dance performances by Indonesian and Turkish folk groups. Guests were also served delicacies from both cuisines.
