Indonesian Envoy Graces FSI’s Ambassadors’ Forum

Ambassador Agus Widjojo delivers his lecture at FSI’s 15th Ambassadors’ Lecture Series

MANILA 30 July 2025 – The Foreign Service Institute held its 15th Ambassadors’ Lecture Series (ALS) at the temporary headquarters of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Pasay on 18 July 2025 with Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Agus Widjojo as the guest lecturer.

Entitled “Towards a Prosperous Diplomatic Relations Between Indonesia-Philippines,” the lecture highlighted the key pillars that shape the two countries’ partnership.

Ambassador Widjojo provided an overview of the strong and evolving diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Indonesia. He underscored the deep historical ties and shared values in global politics between the two countries. He described their relationship as a natural geopolitical necessity in Southeast Asia, strengthened by ongoing efforts in peaceful dispute settlement through dialogue and diplomacy.

The Indonesian Ambassador also emphasized the steady cooperation in defense and security, strong achievements in economic partnerships, and continued work in infrastructure development. He further highlighted the importance of human capital development, especially through education and capacity-building programs.

Further, on the adoption of UNCLOS 1982, Ambassador Widjojo said, “From the very beginning, Indonesia and the Philippines recognize the significance of the global treaty not only as coastal states but as two of the world’s largest archipelagic nations. Both understood that UNCLOS would offer a legal framework to define and protect their maritime sovereignty while enabling peaceful cooperation with neighbors.”

As a way forward, Ambassador Widjojo stressed the importance of building mutual trust and advancing collaboration across all sectors. He reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to working closely with the Philippines to achieve a more prosperous and enduring bilateral relationship.

The FSI launched the ALS as a platform for heads of diplomatic missions in the Philippines to share their knowledge, priorities, and advocacy. It was launched in November 2023 with then Foreign Secretary Enrique A. Manalo delivering the opening remarks. END

FSI Director General Fernandez presents Ambassador Agus Widjojo a token of appreciation after his lecture

FSI Director General and Ambassador Widjojo joined senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions in Manila and other participants. (Not shown are participants following the live broadcast of the event from the adjoining FSI Library.)