Indonesia Marks 80 Years of Independence with Farewell Reception for Ambassador Ridwan Hassan in Doha

rki.news
By Haroon Rashid Qureshi

Doha, Qatar – November 25, 2025: The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Doha hosted a distinguished diplomatic reception to celebrate Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day. The event also served as a farewell for His Excellency Ridwan Hassan, Ambassador of Indonesia to Qatar, who will soon conclude his five-year tenure.
The reception was attended by senior Qatari officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and the Indonesian community in Qatar. Guests of Honor included His Excellency Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, and His Excellency Engineer Essa bin Hilal Al-Kuwari, Minister of State. Distinguished diplomats, including H.E. Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo, Director of Protocol at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Ambassador Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Doha, were also present.
In his address, Ambassador Ridwan Hassan extended greetings to Qatar’s leadership, honoring His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, and His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Father Emir, while praying for their continued health and strength. He expressed appreciation to the Indonesian community and Embassy staff for their efforts in organizing the event, including cultural performances showcasing Indonesia’s vibrant heritage.
Highlighting Indonesia’s achievements over eight decades, the Ambassador emphasized the country’s diversity, with a population exceeding 280 million, speaking 700 languages across 17,000 islands. He noted Indonesia’s progress under President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, targeting 8% economic growth by 2029, supported by foreign investments, particularly in downstream industries.
Reflecting on bilateral relations, Ambassador Hassan praised the strong partnership between Indonesia and Qatar, approaching its 50th anniversary next year. He recalled beginning his tenure in late 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, witnessing Qatar’s resilience and recovery. He highlighted Indonesia’s participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the successful Qatar-Indonesia Year of Culture in 2023, which strengthened collaborations in arts, cuisine, literature, and history.
High-level visits were noted, including President Prabowo Subianto’s meetings with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, resulting in a joint USD 4 billion investment fund. The Ambassador also reaffirmed Indonesia’s solidarity with Qatar following the September 2025 Israeli attack and Indonesia’s continued support for Palestine and the Two-State Solution.
Economic and trade relations were emphasized, with bilateral trade growing nearly 15% over the past five years. Qatar’s investments in Indonesia include Ooredoo’s digital services expansion and QNB Indonesia’s financial services. Tourism cooperation is strengthened through seven daily flights connecting Doha to Jakarta and Bali.
The Ambassador highlighted over 27,000 Indonesians living and working in Qatar, noting growth in labor cooperation, training programs, and protection mechanisms. Educational ties were expanded through university MoUs and Indonesia Education Expos. Defense and security partnerships were also strengthened, including officer exchanges, strategic dialogues, and the establishment of Indonesia’s first Defense Attaché Office in Doha.
As he concluded his address, Ambassador Hassan expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support, friendship, and collaboration he experienced throughout his tenure. He quoted an Arabic proverb: “Separation is not for the sake of parting, but so that longing may always find its way to our hearts,” emphasizing that his farewell is a “see you later” rather than a goodbye.
Finally, he warmly thanked His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the government and people of Qatar, the Indonesian community, Embassy staff, and all esteemed guests attending the reception, noting that their presence reflects the enduring friendship between the two nations and reinforces mutual understanding, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
Guests enjoyed an evening of Indonesian cultural performances, arts, and cuisine, celebrating the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between Indonesia and Qatar.
Wassalamualaikum Wr. Wb. / Terima kasih.