On June 27, U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Sung Y. Kim and U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN Yohannes A. Abraham welcomed guests of honor Coordinating Minister of Maritime and Investment Affairs of Indonesia Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan and Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political Security Community Robert Matheus Michael Tene and other guests to the 247th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. The event celebrated the shared democratic foundations of the United States and Indonesia— freedom, tolerance, and diversity, with a theme of “Red, White, and Bluegrass: Celebrating The 247th Year of American Independence and our Culture of Diversity.” U.S. country music recording artist Ashley Campbell was the evening’s featured performer. Indonesian singing sensation Putri Ariani began the ceremony with an inspired performance of Indonesia Raya.
Ambassador Sung Y. Kim:
“Tonight, we are celebrating our special partnership with Indonesia — and there is a lot to celebrate.”
“Our partnership promotes prosperity. Together, we are advancing economic growth and environmental protection. Our partnership enhances regional security. Together, we are protecting our shared goal of a free, open, peaceful, and resilient Indo-Pacific. Our partnership also celebrates our people and builds lasting connections. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future.”
Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan:
“If we go back to our first diplomatic relations in 1949, almost 75 years, the U.S. played a very large role in assisting Indonesia, in advancing Indonesia, to where it is today. “
“The JETP program is one of the most strategic programs driven by the U.S. government and in partnership with many other countries. We feel that environmental issues will be greatly assisted by the U.S. government as the leader.”
Source : usebassy
