On the 31 of October Her Excellency Mrs. Sri Astari Rasjid Ambassador of The Republic of Indonesia gave a reception at Sofia Hotel Balkan on the occasion of the national holiday of her country.

On the 17 of August 1945 the independence of Indonesia was proclaimed. In her address to the guests H. E. Mrs. Sri Astari Rasjid said that the Indonesian nation „is not built on the basis of ethnicity, culture and religion, but is a community of people - over 300 ethnic groups, with different religions and cultures, who share a common dream of the freedom to live with dignity and to pursue their quest for justice and prosperity. Despite the ups and downs through these 71 years of independence, today it is often said that Indonesia managed in the long run to assert being a nation united in the diversity, where people of different races, faiths and beliefs live as a whole“. Further, Her Excellency reminded the diversity of the population in the country, situated on 17 500 islands, stressed its main aspirations and achievements today, spoke about our bilateral relations and the fact that this year marks the 60th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Indonesia .

The reception was attended by over 400 guests, who had the rare opportunity to enjoy the perfect rhythms and colours of Indonesia - lavish, bright and vivid. This was due to a special procession and Indonesian dances that brought to the hall part of the sunny country. The wonderful Indonesian cuisine also contributed to the harmony of the evening.

Photos: courtesy of the Embassy of Indonesia in the Republic of Bulgaria.