President Prabowo Reaffirms Indonesia-Egypt Historical Ties at State Luncheon

President Prabowo Subianto Sunday (10/11) hosted a state luncheon in honor of President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the State Palace in Jakarta. The event was part of President El-Sisi’s state visit to Indonesia and served as a momentum to strengthen the long-standing friendship between the two countries.

In his introductory remarks, President Prabowo extended his deep appreciation to President El-Sisi’s state visit to Indonesia. He highlighted the historical ties between Indonesia and Egypt, dating back to Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

“I express my highest gratitude for Your Excellency’s state visit. The relationship between Indonesia and Egypt has been established for a long time. Indonesia has not forgotten that Egypt was the first country to recognize the independence of the Republic of Indonesia, support Indonesia’s struggle for independence, and pioneer the Non-Aligned Movement together,” President Prabowo stated.

President Prabowo noted that the state visit of President El-Sisi serves as a crucial opportunity to strengthen relations between the two countries. He noted that the meeting also resulted in important discussions and agreements to strengthen Indonesia-Egypt cooperation.

“Therefore, Your Excellency’s state visit is a highly significant one. In our meeting earlier, we discussed crucial matters and reached key agreements,” President Prabowo added.

In response, President El-Sisi expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome extended by President Prabowo and the Indonesian Government during his state visit. He also reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation through various agreements reached.

“On this occasion, we have reached various joint agreements between Indonesia and Egypt, establishing stronger cooperation between two countries. Allow us to express our gratitude to Your Excellency, President [Prabowo]. Thank you very much for this very warm welcome. May God protect Your Excellency and Indonesia,” President El-Sisi stated.

During the state luncheon, the two Heads of State were welcomed with a performance of the Zapin Lancang Kuning Dance, a traditional dance from Riau that combines Malay and Arabic cultural elements. Depicting the valor and steadfastness of Malay sailors navigating the oceans, this dance is an integral part of the welcoming ceremony for state guests.

The luncheon at the State Palace concluded President El-Sisi’s state visit to Indonesia. The visit served as a valuable opportunity to deepen the long-standing friendship between the two countries, which share a long history, and to fortify future cooperation. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (NST/TM)