JAKARTA, The Kabar News—President Prabowo Subianto received credentials from 11 ambassador-designate at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday, Nov. 6, formally marking the beginning of their diplomatic assignments in Indonesia.

The ceremony brought together representatives of nine countries, the Holy See and the European Union. After accepting the credentials, Prabowo held a meeting with the new envoys. They discussed opportunities for closer cooperation in economic affairs, education and other areas of mutual interest.

“The government of Indonesia is open and prepared to strengthen friendships, build partnerships, and develop various mutually beneficial cooperation opportunities with friendly nations,” Prabowo said in a statement published by the State Secretariat.

The ambassadors who submitted their credentials were Alexander Rieger of Austria, Md. Abul Hasan Mridha of Bangladesh, David Jordens of Belgium and Kaja Glomm of Norway. The group also included Ueno Atsushi of Japan, Konstantin Obolensky of Switzerland and Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa of Malaysia.

Pirjo Suomela-Chowdhury represented Finland, while Archbishop Walter Erbi began his mission as the Holy See’s apostolic nuncio. Andy Atmodimedjo submitted his credentials for Suriname. Hervé Delphin formally began his assignment as the European Union’s ambassador to Indonesia.

Trade and investment were prominent topics of discussion. European Union diplomats and their Austrian and Swiss counterparts identified potential for deeper commercial ties with Indonesia.

That cooperation could include the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement or IEU-CEPA. Negotiations with Indonesia and the EU were finalized in September 2025.

“But the agreement still has to pass through legal procedures, signature and ratification before it can enter into force,” the European External Action Service said.

The deal seeks to lower trade barriers and create clearer rules for companies operating in both markets. Its final impact will depend on how it is implemented. Furthermore, it depends on the ability of companies, including smaller ones, to exploit the opportunities it creates.

Japan and Malaysia also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations with Indonesia. Japan has maintained diplomatic relations with Indonesia since 1958. Meanwhile, Malaysia shares extensive economic links and close cultural connections with its neighboring country.

“Historically, we share strong social and cultural connections. Most importantly, it is the enduring friendship among our people,” Malaysian Ambassador Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa said after the ceremony.

He added that he wanted to build on the foundation established by both countries’ leaders.

The formal program also featured a Zapin Lenggang Kipas dance from Jambi and a Sasando musical performance from East Nusa Tenggara. The cultural presentation highlighted Indonesia’s regional diversity as the new ambassadors began their assignments.

The arrival of the 11 envoys gives Indonesia an opportunity to translate diplomatic commitments into measurable cooperation. Future progress will depend on whether the talks produce stronger commercial links, wider educational exchanges and practical benefits for the participating countries.