Online Reporter
Africa Moyo
Zimbabwe and Indonesia yesterday celebrated two major milestones in their bilateral relationship — the 81st Independence anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia and 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries — with both nations reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation and friendship.
The celebrations, held in Harare, brought together Government officials, diplomats including Ambassador of Palestine to Zimbabwe Dr Tamer Almassri, business leaders and members of the Indonesian community.
Speaking at the event, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade director for Africa, Asia and the Pacific Mr Mqabuko Spencer Dube congratulated Indonesia on behalf of President Mnangagwa, the Government and the people of Zimbabwe on the milestones.
“As we also celebrate 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two nations, we affirm a partnership grounded in sovereign equality, mutual respect and shared responsibility,” he said.
Mr Dube said Zimbabwe and Indonesia shared a commitment to multilateralism, peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.
He also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s support for Zimbabwe’s election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term.
Indonesian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Arief Hidayat described the anniversary as a significant milestone in relations between the two countries.
“Forty years is not just a number. It represents four decades of friendship, mutual respect, dialogue and cooperation between our two countries and our two peoples,” he said.
Ambassador Hidayat said the relationship had continued to grow, with progress recorded in economic cooperation, education, agriculture and cultural exchanges.
He said the anniversary was an opportunity not only to celebrate past achievements, but also to look ahead to greater cooperation.
The celebrations also featured cultural performances by Indonesian and Zimbabwean artists, highlighting growing people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Officials from both countries said the occasion reflected the strength of bilateral relations and their shared commitment to building a stronger partnership in the years ahead.
