Indonesian embassy in Ankara holds cultural event

By Ali Murat Alhas

ANKARA (AA) – The Indonesian Embassy in Ankara held an event on Friday to introduce its culture and strengthen ties with Turkey.

The event called Indonesian Night included dance performances demonstrating the Southeast Asian country's unique cultural features, and performances harmonizing local culture with that of Turkey.

Ambassador Lalu Muhamad Iqbal said Indonesia and Turkey enjoy deep-rooted ties, and people of both the countries are well-connected.

“The most important thing is the relationship between the people ... We are connected by our culture and Indonesians understand Turkish culture,” the ambassador said, adding that both countries are linked for centuries.

Turkey and Indonesia enjoy close and multifaceted relations. In the 16th century, the Sultanate of Aceh had asked the Ottoman Empire’s assistance against Portuguese aggression. Ottoman support to Aceh back then marks the beginning of official relations between the two countries.

About Indonesian students getting a university education in Turkey, Iqbal said: “It is truly important as they are building people-to-people contact and it will play an important role to improve and strengthen our bilateral ties in the future.”

At the end of the event, certificates of appreciation were delivered to the performers, and a reception was held.