Russia Welcomes Indonesia's New Foreign Minister

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov has welcomed the appointment of Arrmanatha Nasir as Indonesia's new foreign minister, expressing confidence that the new leadership at the Foreign Ministry will further strengthen the strategic partnership between Jakarta and Moscow.

Tolchenov said he had met Arrmanatha several times and knew him personally, describing the senior diplomat as a seasoned professional.

"I have met him several times. I cannot say that he is a close friend, but we know each other. He is a professional diplomat, a career diplomat," Tolchenov said during a press conference at Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta on Friday afternoon, Oct. 2, 2026.

Based on that experience, Tolchenov said he was confident bilateral relations between Russia and Indonesia would remain strong and productive under Arrmanatha's leadership, adding that discussions on a wide range of issues would continue.

"I believe that under his leadership, under his management, we will continue to have very good relations with the Foreign Ministry. We will continue discussions on many topics, ranging from bilateral relations and international and global issues to regional cooperation," he said.

Tolchenov also raised the possibility of inviting Minister Arrmanatha to make an official working visit to Russia, saying such a trip could help further strengthen diplomatic ties between the two countries.

"I don't remember when he last visited Russia, but perhaps we can consider a visit to my country next year or whenever the time is right. I am very optimistic, and I believe that under his leadership we will achieve even more," he said.

Despite welcoming the new era at the Foreign Ministry, Tolchenov stressed that Russia would not forget former foreign minister Sugiono's contributions. He recalled minister Sugiono's first official visit to Kazan, Russia, as foreign minister, during which Indonesia formally submitted its application to join BRICS.

"Indonesia's BRICS membership is associated with Mr. Sugiono's name and, of course, with the President's, but also with Mr. Sugiono's. I believe he will remain a good friend," Tolchenov said.

"Although he is now handling other areas, our cooperation is truly comprehensive, and I hope to have another opportunity to discuss various areas of cooperation with him." (Gusti Panji)