Reception to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the independence of Indonesia and the 50 years of Indonesia—New Zealand bilateral diplomatic relations

9 September 2008

Ambassador Amris Hassan

The Honourable Phil Goff representing the Government,

Tim Groser representing the Opposition,

Members of Parliament,

Excellencies and Members of the Diplomatic corps,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen.

E nga mana, E nga reo, Rau rangatira ma, tena koutou katoa.

It is an honour to accept a copy of Indonesia – New Zealand: 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations, on behalf of the New Zealand Parliament. This impressive looking book is a worthy tribute to the 50 years of diplomatic relations our two countries have shared.

Your Excellency, this is an occasion to reflect on the vitality of New Zealand’s growing and deepening relationship with Indonesia and the importance we attach to it.

During the last decade Indonesia has emerged as a leading democracy in Asia. It is an increasingly influential country within the region and world-wide. It is therefore fitting that relations between the New Zealand and Indonesian Parliaments have developed accordingly.

As a key figure in the Islamic world New Zealand looks to Indonesia as a valued partner in efforts to combat the underlying causes of terrorism and radicalisation through promoting interfaith dialogue and a better understanding between cultures and communities.

New Zealand greatly values its relationship with Indonesia, and I welcome the increase in contact, communication and the sharing of experiences between our parliamentarians.

I was pleased to host the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum in Auckland in January and to welcome Indonesian parliamentarians to New Zealand at that time.

I was grateful for the invitation to visit Indonesia, in my role as The Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives. I was disappointed not to be able to take up the offer this year due to other commitments, but we hope that the Speakers of both our countries will have the opportunity to meet next year.

During the last 24 months we have been pleased to receive visits by five different committees from the Indonesian House of Representatives. The two most recent visits demonstrate the value of Parliamentary connections.

Six Members of the Indonesian House of Representatives Legislative Agency visited New Zealand in June this year. During their visit, they met with the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Trade, the Chief Parliamentary Counsel, members of the Legislation Advisory Council and discussed Select Committee process with the Primary Production Select Committee. The Members of Parliament shared experiences in drafting and making legislation in our respective countries.

In July this year, the 12 Members of the Indonesian Parliament who form Committee VIII visited New Zealand. This committee is responsible for social issues and therefore met with the Minister for Social Development and the Minister of Women’s Affairs. Officials, from both countries, were able to discuss policy and programmes to promote women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, care of the elderly, children, disabled and the unemployed.

Both visits were very successful.

Given the rapid change that is taking place in Indonesia, these visits have helped to refresh our perceptions of each other and increase mutual understanding.

We look forward to further developing the relationship between our Parliaments and amongst our Parliamentarians. I know we will enjoy an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to accept this book on behalf of the New Zealand House of Representatives.