RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s peacekeeping role in Central Africa was underscored as Ambassador to Cameroon and Central Africa, Agung Cahaya Sumirat, formally began his mission in Bangui recently, presenting his credentials to President Faustin Archange Touadéra at the Presidential Palace.

President Touadéra welcomed Ambassador Agung’s appointment, praising Indonesia’s development progress and expressing hope for stronger bilateral ties, Antara reported. He also emphasized Central Africa’s commitment to expanding partnerships with countries worldwide to support national development.

Ambassador Agung conveyed greetings from President Prabowo Subianto and highlighted the spirit of the Asia–Africa Conference as a foundation for solidarity and cooperation.

He reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the Central African Republic through the deployment of Indonesian military engineers and police units serving under MINUSCA, the UN peacekeeping mission.

During his visit, Ambassador Agung met Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Mohamed Ag Ayoya, who commended the professionalism of more than 300 Indonesian personnel in MINUSCA. Their role, he noted, has been vital in advancing peace, stability, and community security.

The ambassador also toured the Indonesian contingents’ camp, where he was received with a military honor guard and a traditional kuda lumping dance. Unit commanders showcased operational achievements and equipment, reaffirming their dedication to MINUSCA’s mandate.

Ambassador Agung praised their outreach efforts, noting how local communities in Bangui have even adopted Indonesian words through daily interactions with the peacekeepers, an example of winning hearts and minds.

Central African Republic, a nation of 5.5 million rich in gold and diamond resources, has faced civil conflict since 2013. MINUSCA was established under UN Security Council Resolution 2149 (2014) to protect civilians, safeguard the peace process, and support state functions.

Alongside Indonesia’s peacekeepers, a small number of Indonesian migrant workers contribute to the local economy in hospitality and mining.

Indonesia and the Central African Republic established diplomatic relations in 2016. This year marks a decade of bilateral ties, underscoring a growing partnership built on solidarity, peace, and shared development goals. ***