Imagine standing before a building on Jl. Dr. Kusuma Atmaja No.15 in Jakarta. This is the Embassy of Afghanistan. It stands as a symbol of the enduring relationship between Afghanistan and Indonesia.
The Embassy of Afghanistan has a rich history. It reflects decades of diplomatic ties between the two nations. These ties officially began on May 20, 1950. Afghanistan was among the first to recognize Indonesia’s independence in 1949. This early recognition laid the foundation for a strong bond.
In 1954, Afghanistan established its embassy here in Jakarta. A treaty of friendship was signed in 1955. This further solidified the relationship between Afghanistan and Indonesia.
The relationship between Afghanistan and Indonesia is built on shared religious solidarity. Both countries have Muslim-majority populations. Indonesia has supported Afghanistan’s rebuilding efforts. This support includes technical training and infrastructure development. It also focuses on women’s empowerment and higher education.
Even during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Indonesia showed its support. Indonesia boycotted the 1980 Summer Olympics in solidarity with Afghanistan.
In 2012, a new treaty of friendship was signed. It promoted cooperation in various sectors. These sectors include politics, economics, trade, and education. Indonesia offered more opportunities for Afghan students. They could study at Indonesian universities. The country also provided training for Afghan teachers and police.
Several state visits have strengthened the bonds. President Sukarno of Indonesia visited Afghanistan in 1961. President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan visited Indonesia in 2012. Indonesian President Joko Widodo visited Afghanistan in January 2018.
The Embassy of Afghanistan in Jakarta provides various services. These include passport issuance and document notarization. It also issues visas to Afghanistan. The embassy offers assistance to Afghan citizens in emergencies.
The embassy’s phone number is +62 21 314 3169. Its office hours are Monday to Thursday from 09:00 to 16:00 and Friday from 09:00 to 12:00.
The Embassy of Afghanistan in Jakarta has faced challenges. These include dealing with Afghan illegal immigrants. Many sought refuge in Indonesia on their way to Australia. Despite these challenges, the embassy has continued its work.
After the fall of Kabul in 2021, Indonesia temporarily closed the embassy. It later reopened on February 14, 2022. This reopening signaled Indonesia’s continued commitment to Afghanistan. However, Indonesia has not formally acknowledged the Taliban government.
Indonesia has urged the Taliban to ensure stability. It also encourages the formation of an inclusive government. Respect for human rights is another key priority.
The Embassy of Afghanistan in Jakarta remains a vital link. It connects Afghanistan and Indonesia. It symbolizes a friendship that has endured through many challenges. From its early beginnings to its present-day operations, the embassy stands as a testament to the enduring ties between these two nations.