JAKARTA - Football unites Indonesia with Africa beyond the boundaries of state, race, language and politics, said Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto.
He conveyed this in a friendly football match between Indonesia and Africa to commemorate Africa Day.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs held an African Ambassadors' Gathering and a Friendship Football Match for the Diplomatic Corps at the Madya Stadium, Bung Karno Sports Complex (GBK), Jakarta (23/5).
This event was attended by the ambassadors of African countries accredited in Indonesia.
Africa Day is celebrated every May 25 to commemorate the founding of the Organization of African Unity in Addis Ababa in 1963, a historic moment when newly independent African nations came together to advance decolonization, dignity and common progress.
For Indonesia, Africa Day is also a celebration of the friendship that was built together since the era of the struggle to win independence, and which continues to live to this day.
Football was also the medium of celebration chosen, given the long-standing relationship between Indonesia and Africa on the green field.
From legends like Cameroon's Roger Milla and Ghana's Michael Essien, to Pierre Njanka and Redouane Barkaoui who have been icons of a number of local clubs for years, Africa has long been part of Indonesia's football DNA.
"Football unites us beyond the borders of countries, races, languages, and politics; (football) reminds us that friendship and humanity are always stronger than division," said the Director General of Asia Pacific and Africa (Aspasaf) of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dr. Santo Darmosumarto, launching the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tuesday (26/5).
This activity is part of Indonesia's commitment to continue deepening its involvement with Africa, not only through diplomatic and economic channels, but also through sports and warm and sustainable human relations.
Indonesia views Africa as a strategic partner and a true friend in the Global South, and celebrations such as this are a reminder that inter-state friendship is not only built in the diplomatic space, but also on the ground.
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