Indonesia celebrates 70 years of Independence

BANGKOK, August 25 (TNA) - The Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok has organized a reception to celebrate the 70th anniversary of independence of the world's largest archipelagic nation. Delivering a speech at the reception, held at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in the capital on Monday evening, Indonesia Ambassador to Thailand Lutfi Rauf expressed his appreciation to Indonesia's success in building up the nation over the past 70 years. The Indonesian ambassador stressed that Jakarta will continue to advance and sustain social and economic stability, strengthen national unity, uphold democracy and provide social justice to the Indonesian people. The Indonesian top envoy noted that the year 2015 also marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Thailand, which have kept growing, covering bilateral cooperation in all aspects so far. The Indonesian top envoy also pledged that he will continue to strengthen ties and cooperation between Jakarta and Bangkok, extending his full support to Thai authorities in bringing justice to victims of a bomb blast at Ratchaprasong Intersection on August 17. On the occasion, the ambassador also announced that Indonesia, along with other member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will pursue their commitment on maintaining peace, stability and prosperity in the region. Monday evening's reception was attended by international ambassadors to Thailand, representatives from public and private agencies and international journalists. Indonesia declared its independence from the Netherlands on August 17, 1945, which has become the country’s National Day. (TNA)