SINGAPORE – President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan have conveyed their warm congratulations to Indonesia on the occasion of its 80th Independence Day, marked on August 17, 2025.
In letters addressed to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, both President Tharman and PM Wong highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Singapore and Indonesia, while reaffirming their commitment to strengthen cooperation in key areas of mutual interest.
President Tharman described Indonesia’s journey since 1945 as “an inspiring story of transformation, progress, and togetherness,” noting that the two nations have shared a longstanding relationship even before independence. He also recalled President Prabowo’s attendance at Singapore’s 60th National Day Parade on August 9 as a reflection of the “close friendship and common heritage” between the two neighbours.
“As we celebrate our respective milestones this month, I look forward to the next chapter of our friendship, building on the strong foundation of mutual understanding, trust, and respect between our peoples,” President Tharman wrote.
Echoing this sentiment, PM Wong praised Indonesia’s achievements in nation-building and sustainable growth. He commended President Prabowo’s leadership in enhancing food and energy security, developing human capital, and improving livelihoods across Indonesia. “These achievements are a testament to your vision and decisiveness, as well as the dynamism of the Indonesian people,” he said.
PM Wong also expressed appreciation for President Prabowo’s participation in the 2025 National Day Parade and his earlier state visit in June, which included the Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat. He noted that these engagements were important platforms to deepen collaboration in trade, investment, defence, and sustainability.
Separately, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan congratulated Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono, underscoring Indonesia’s increasing prominence as both a regional economic engine and a global voice. He expressed optimism about the progress of bilateral projects that build on the 19 deliverables agreed upon during the recent leaders’ retreat, including cooperation in the green economy.
“Singapore and Indonesia are close and enduring friends,” Dr Balakrishnan affirmed, adding that he looks forward to advancing partnerships in areas such as connectivity, defence, food and energy security, and joint engagement at ASEAN and other international fora.
The exchange of congratulatory messages highlights the enduring relationship between Singapore and Indonesia as both nations mark significant milestones in their shared histories this year.