Russian Ambassador Tolchenov: Iftar Bridges Friendship Between Indonesian and Russian Muslims
Jakarta — Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov has described the iftar gathering organised by the Russian Embassy at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque on Saturday as an opportunity to strengthen friendship between Muslims in Indonesia and Russia.
“We wish to share our affection and understanding with our friends in Indonesia, because we can work together for the development and prosperity of our nations,” said Ambassador Tolchenov during the iftar event hosted by the Russian Embassy and the Muslim Spiritual Assembly of Russia (SAM) at Istiqlal Mosque.
The diplomatic mission and Russian Muslim organisation collaborated with Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs to distribute 4,000 breaking-of-fast meal packages to participants.
Ambassador Tolchenov noted that despite the thousands of kilometres separating Indonesia and Russia, the two nations are united by Islam, which is embraced by many citizens in both countries.
“Because of Islam, because of our long history of relations, we are very close to one another,” he said.
With the religious and cultural diversity present in both nations, Indonesia and Russia should serve as examples of religious tolerance to other countries worldwide, he remarked.
“Not only between Muslim and Christian communities, but because we can live side by side with all religions in our countries. Religion should not divide us; rather, it should unite us,” he stated.
He viewed the Istiqlal Mosque gathering as reflecting successful cooperation between Indonesia and Russia in building peace and friendship.
Arip Sultanmagomedov, the Muslim Spiritual Assembly of Russia’s official representative for Indonesia, stated that the Istiqlal Mosque event represents the largest gathering the organisation has organised in Indonesia to date.
He acknowledged that the iftar moment is particularly valuable as it brings people together through “shared values and sincere dialogue”.
He expressed hopes that during this Ramadan month, Indonesia would continue to receive peace, blessings, and unity, as well as a bright future for all its people.
The iftar gathering was also attended by Gugun Gumilar, Special Staff to Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs. The three officials symbolically presented iftar meal packages to participants.