Independence Day message from H.E. Mr. Rachmat Budiman
Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Kingdom of Thailand and UNESCAP

Today, on the historic and auspicious occasion of the 77th Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and share my happiness with the Indonesian community and friends of Indonesia in Thailand. I also have the distinct honour to convey my deepest appreciation and gratitude to the Government and the People of the Kingdom of Thailand for the good wishes and messages of congratulations extended to us on this joyous day.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish His Majesty Raja Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, members of the Royal Family, the Royal Thai Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand for good health, prosperity and long life.

This year, Indonesia’s Independence Day theme is “Pulih Lebih Cepat, Bangkit Lebih Kuat” which translate to “Recover Faster, Rise Stronger”. The theme itself reflects the optimism of a country that is dynamic, synergistic, steadfast, and straightforward in its approach to tackling global challenges. Additionally, there is a common desire for Indonesia to develop quickly and powerfully.

This year is the third year for Indonesia commemorating Independence Day in a pandemic. However, we thank the Almighty God because Indonesia and Thailand have continued to handle the Covid-19 virus well this year. We have been successful in combating the Covid-19 virus thanks to widespread and even distribution of vaccines, as well as the cooperation of numerous societal groups and associated parties in both Indonesia and Thailand.

For Indonesia and Thailand, this year is also a special year. It was an honour and a privilege for both nations to be trusted to host the 2022 G20 Forum and the 2022 APEC Summit. The two world forums are not only aimed at the interest of member countries but also to overcome the big challenge arising from the pandemic and to help each other within their respective frameworks. In this time, I would like to once again to express my congratulations and unwavering support for the 2022 APEC Summit chaired by the Kingdom of Thailand and further look forward to Thailand’s support for Indonesia’s 2023 ASEAN Chairmanship.

Bringing “Recover Together, Recover Stronger” as the theme of the G20 presidency, Indonesia has 3 focus pillars for the recovery of the Covid-19 pandemic. Those are Global Health Architecture, Sustainable Energy Transition, and Digital Transformation. Through these pillars, Indonesia will continue to take the lead in ensuring equitable access to a Covid-19 vaccine, promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development. At the same time, Indonesia will continue to increase our collective capacity in securing the common prosperity of nations, through various global tax reform efforts, stronger cooperation in fighting corruption, deepening infrastructure financing, and promoting more democratic and representative international cooperation.

Through the momentum of the 2022 G20 Forum and the 2022 APEC Summit, Indonesia is committed to playing an active role in maintaining stability and driving the economy in the ASEAN and Asia Pacific regions and increasing cooperation between Indonesia and the Kingdom of Thailand. Indonesia’s G20 Presidency this year open the opportunities for regional economic cooperation with Thailand and other ASEAN member countries to contribute to the tourism sector such as accommodation (hospitality), transportation, and the creative economy.

Thailand and Indonesia are destined to be close neighbours, trusted friends and key economic drivers of ASEAN. These have undoubtedly provided strong and solid foundation to further strengthen and deepen our friendship and engagement. The relationship between Indonesia and Thailand has also been demonstrated by good cooperation and mutual solidarity in the regional and international fora. Indonesia and Thailand, along with other ASEAN member states, have been working together to ensure the development of ASEAN Community towards the goals of common stability, common progress and common prosperity among our peoples in the region.

At the global level, as the holder of the G20 presidency, Indonesia will continue to work, establish communication and consultation with all member countries so that in the midst of this very difficult world situation, the G20 can continue to work and contribute significantly to the world’s efforts to recover from the pandemic and overcome the effects of the war in Ukraine. In 2022, Indonesia is committed to sending 1,148 personnel consisting of 960 military task force personnel and 198 police task force personnel for peacekeeping forces. The protection of Indonesian citizens (WNI) will also continue to be a priority for Indonesia’s diplomacy in 2022. The protection system for Indonesian citizens will be improved through strengthening infrastructure and human resources, accelerating digitalisation, and developing legal frameworks and international cooperation.

I am greatly honoured to be part of the endeavours to further strengthen the mutually beneficial relations between Indonesia and Thailand that will enable our two countries, not only to bounce back better in all walks of life but also to prepare better for similar challenges in the future. In this regard, I specifically wish to amplify the strong message from President Joko Widodo for the enhancement of our bilateral cooperation and engagement in economic sector, particularly in trade and investment; maintaining regional peace and stability; ensuring mutual support in various regional and global fora; as well as in research and development of public health policy, including on vaccines for Covid-19.

Finally, I wish to convey my highest appreciation and gratitude to the Government, private sectors, and related stakeholders for the strong support in promoting and enhancing relations and cooperation between Indonesia and Thailand. With the continued support and close partnership, I am fully confident to be able to carry out this duty successfully.
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