Media Release
Minister For Foreign Affairs
The Hon Julie Bishop MP
17 August 2015
Indonesia National Day
I offer the warmest congratulations to the Government and people of Indonesia on the occasion of their 70th anniversary of Independence.
Australia was one of the first countries to recognise Indonesia’s independence and our partnership has been based on the prominent role Australia played in supporting Indonesia’s independence struggle.
Indonesia has made significant progress over the past 70 years. It has made a remarkable transition to democracy, with an independent press and vibrant civil society. Its large and growing economy is currently the sixteenth largest globally and projected to be in the top ten by 2030.
Today Indonesia is one of Australia’s closest partners in the Indo-Pacific, the most dynamic region in the world.
Indonesia is our 12th largest trading partner. We are working together to drive stability and prosperity of our region, including through the G20, East Asia Summit and APEC.
Indonesia is also one of the most popular destinations under the New Colombo Plan with around 2,000 young Australians so far supported to study in Indonesia.
Our common interests and our friendship are enduring.
Foreign Minister’s Office: Rachel Obradovic 0478 488 874
Gabrielle Young 0408 275 340