Strengthening Bonds: Indonesia and Zimbabwe Embrace the Bandung Spirit
The Indonesian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, HE Arief, celebrated the deep friendship between Indonesia and Zimbabwe, highlighting their shared history of fighting for independence and justice. Speaking at a commemorative event marking Indonesia’s 80th independence anniversary, attended by heads of mission, government officials, and journalists, Ambassador Arief emphasized the enduring relevance of Indonesia’s “bebas dan aktif” (free and active) foreign policy.
Rooted in the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung, this philosophy promotes peace, justice, and cooperation among developing nations—a vision Zimbabwe shares as a member of the Non-Aligned Movement. Concrete collaborations are underway:
– Agricultural Boost: Indonesian experts are in Zimbabwe conducting artificial insemination to enhance food security, with plans to continue the program through 2025.
– Scholarships: Over 50 Zimbabweans are studying in Indonesia on government and university scholarships.
– Trade and Partnerships: Efforts to expand trade in palm oil, pharmaceuticals, and minerals, with invitations for Zimbabwean businesses to join Trade Expo Indonesia. A Joint Committee on Bilateral Cooperation meeting is set for 2026.
Ambassador Arief urged both nations to tackle global challenges like climate change with solidarity quoting President Soekarno: ” Let us row together, toward a horizon of shared prosperity.” and row together towards a horizon of shared prosperity.
In a parallel address, Zimbabwe’s Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Albert R. Chimbindi, stressed that diplomacy and cooperation are vital for development. “Zimbabwe seeks to deepen economic diplomacy, expanding cooperation in agriculture, mining, education, and health through existing partnerships,” he said.
