Islamabad (TDI): The Embassy of Indonesia in Islamabad organized the inaugural ceremony of the Indonesian Corner at the National Library of Pakistan.
The ceremony was hosted by Ambassador Chandra W. Sukotjo, and graced by distinguished dignitaries including Pakistan’s Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi; Prime Secretary of the National Library of Indonesia, Dr. Joko Santoso; and Director General of the National Library of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Shahzad Muzaffar.
The ceremony was also attended by all ASEAN Ambassadors and High Commissioners, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, Indonesian community including students, and representatives of the Pakistani community.
Ambassador Sukotjo highlighted the significance of the Indonesian Corner as a symbol of mutual trust and enduring friendship between the two nations.
“Having a military background, I understand that trusting your colleagues means trusting them with your weapons. In the same spirit, the dedicated space for the Indonesian Corner at the National Library of Pakistan stands as a powerful symbol of Pakistan’s trust in Indonesia” he said.
In his remarks, Minister Khichi said that the Indonesian Corner symbolizes a bridge between the two peoples. “It will provide greater access to Indonesia’s literature, heritage, and intellectual traditions, and will support research, learning, and cultural understanding for students and visitors alike.”
Another important feature of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Library of Indonesia and the National Library of Pakistan on cooperation in the field of library and information management.
The MoU was signed by Prime Secretary, Dr. Joko Santoso and Director General Muhammad Ali Shahzad Muzaffar. “The signing of the MoU between our two national libraries further deepens this collaboration,” Muzaffar said.
Dr. Santoso described the Indonesian Corner as a significant milestone in Indonesia and Pakistan relations, and expressed confidence that the corner will grow into a “vibrant hub of learning and a lasting symbol of the enduring friendship.”
The National Library of Indonesia holds one of the largest and richest collections in Southeast Asia. In 2024, the National Library of Indonesia received the UNESCO/JIKJI Memory of the World Prize, the first time this honor has been awarded to an Indonesian institution.
Ambassador Sukotjo also presented the book on 75 Years of Indonesia and Pakistan Diplomatic Relations to distinguished guests, as a gesture of goodwill.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
