President Prabowo Subianto received letters of credence from 12 extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors of friendly nations at Istana Merdeka, Jakarta, on Friday (November 7, 2025). The ceremony marked the official start of their diplomatic duties in Indonesia. Several ambassadors expressed admiration for Indonesia's culture and people.
The ceremony for submitting letters of credence took place in the Credentials Room at Istana Merdeka on Friday afternoon. The ambassadors arrived sequentially starting at 12:45 WIB and were welcomed by an honor guard from the Presidential Security Force (Paspampres). The proceedings began with the playing of each nation's national anthem before they met President Prabowo one by one.
The 12 ambassadors included: Barbara Szymanowska (Poland), Khalid Jassim Alyassin (Kuwait), Gladys Kamia Isihanua (Solomon Islands), Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri (Pakistan), Sharon Ann Lennon (Ireland) with spouse, Tornike Nozadze (Georgia), Bernardo de Sicart Escoda (Spain), Salem Ahmed Balfakeeh (Yemen), Francisco de la Torre Galindo (Mexico) with spouse, Ralf Beste (Germany), Muhammetnyyas Mashalov (Turkmenistan, non-resident), and Patrick Hemmer (Luxembourg, non-resident).
President Prabowo was accompanied by State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, Foreign Minister Sugiono, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, and Head of the Government Communication Agency Angga Raka Prabowo. The submission officially commenced their diplomatic assignments in Indonesia, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations and strategic partnerships.
In separate remarks, Irish Ambassador Sharon Ann Lennon expressed her honor in starting her duties. "I think our literature, cultural history, dance, music are really appreciated and understood here and throughout Indonesia. I really want to deepen that and perhaps bring some cultural collaborations between Indonesian and Irish artists in the coming years," she said at Istana Merdeka.
German Ambassador Ralf Beste emphasized the importance of understanding Indonesian culture. "I'm learning Indonesian to listen eagerly. I must understand the Indonesian people better so we can cooperate well. We want to know all the islands here. Indonesians are very friendly and the food here is delicious," he stated.
Meanwhile, Spanish Ambassador Bernardo de Sicart Escoda admired the hospitality of the people. "What I like about Indonesia? Especially the people. They are very close. They are very open and always try to help. I also like the food, the scenery, and the various regions and villages in Indonesia," he said.
The ambassadors are committed to enhancing friendship and cooperation in various fields for the benefit of both nations' societies.