IndoIrish.Com - Indonesia and Ireland celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries on 12 November 2009 at Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin, Ireland. This celebration was hosted by the Indonesian Ambassador to UK and Ireland, H.E. Mr Yuri Octavian Thamrin and and the Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland. It was attended by politicians, business people, Indonesian and Irish citizen who live in Ireland, Northern Ireland and UK. The Ambassador of the Netherlands and the Ambassador of Nigeria also attended along with other dignitaries. The guests were offered drinks and light Indonesian snacks made by the Indonesian community.
Unfortunately due to other commitments, the guest of honour, Irish Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Michael Martin could not stay too long. Mr. David Cooney, the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs attended and gave a speech on his behalf. Both countries expressed their satisfaction of the diplomatic relationship and planned to develop more in the future. The speeches were followed by cultural performances from both countries. There were a number of Indonesian performances; the mesmerising Legong Dance from Bali, the graceful Yapong Dance from Java, the hilarious Rampak Gendang musical performance from Java and the excellent Saman Dance from Aceh were performed by the Indonesian community and representatives from the Indonesian embassy. A number of energetic and lively Irish dancing performances lead by Mr. Kevin Warren also entertained the guests in between the Indonesian performances. The costumes from both countries were rich with colour and tradition. It was a great night.
The night closed with some photo opportunities to mark this eventful occasion. Thank you everyone for making the night special.(By Mogi NP & Maya S)
