KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Cuba, Simon Djatwoko Irwantoro Soekarno, formally presented his letter of credentials from President Prabowo Subianto to Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez at the Palace of the Revolution in Havana on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

The credential ceremony marked the official start of Ambassador Simon Soekarno’s diplomatic mission in the Republic of Cuba. President Díaz-Canel expressed Cuba’s commitment to strengthening its support for Indonesia.

He also acknowledged the pivotal roles of Indonesia and Cuba as founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), particularly in addressing global challenges. Ambassador Simon conveyed warm greetings from President Prabowo to President Díaz-Canel.

“The Ambassador emphasized Indonesia’s strong commitment to deepening bilateral relations, especially in the areas of economy, trade, health, education, and science and technology,” read a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Havana, received by rri.co.id on Thursday, September 25.

Ambassador Simon also thanked the Cuban government for providing scholarships to Indonesian students pursuing medical education and expressed hope for continued collaboration in this field.

Following the credential presentation, Ambassador Simon participated in a ceremonial wreath-laying at the José Martí Monument in Plaza de la Revolución. He placed a ribbon inscribed with the dedication “To José Martí” in tribute to Cuba’s national hero.

The ceremony concluded with an official photo session, alongside other participants. Ambassador Simon then hosted a diplomatic reception, inviting fellow ASEAN ambassadors and representatives from countries accredited to the Indonesian Embassy in Havana.

Accredited countries include Haiti, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas. Senior officials from Cuba’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and members of the Cuban Parliament also attended the reception.

More than 30 dignitaries were present at the event, which was marked by warmth and camaraderie. The credential presentation reaffirmed the strong foundation of Indonesia–Cuba diplomatic relations, which have been in place since 1960.

The partnership continues to grow, driven by mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared commitment to beneficial cooperation. Ambassador Simon was accompanied by his spouse, Evi Soekarno, and Minister Counsellor Amin Maulana Wicaksono of the Indonesian Embassy in Havana. ***

Translator: Annaila Syafa Azzahra

Editor: Sri Wahyuni