"The presence of the first lady (during the president's visit) is (our) message to the world that Indonesia is mindful of world peace and humanity," Presidential Staff Office's (KSP's) Deputy V chief expert staff, Theofransus Litaay, stated here on Wednesday.
According to the expert staff, Iriana's presence can be symbolic of peace that Jokowi is keen to showcase to the global community amid the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Earlier, military and intelligence expert Ridlwan Habib stated that Iriana's presence during Jokowi's visit to Ukraine conveyed at least three messages.
Iriana's presence during his visit is the president's effort for peace diplomacy, as the feminine aspect of the first lady is emblematic of the values of peace, gentleness, and non-violence, the expert stated.
The second message is that Jokowi is keen to showcase to the global community that the expression of support should be conveyed through real and bold action, as was apparent from Iriana's presence, he remarked.
Related news: President Jokowi sets sights on peace-building in Ukraine, Russia
According to Habib, the third message being portrayed is that the first lady is the president's source of power and persistence. In Javanese culture, a wife is a husband's better half in life and must be present to motivate and bolster him, he noted.
The expert highlighted that with her visit to Ukraine, Iriana became the first Indonesian first lady to visit a war zone.
President Jokowi, First Lady Iriana, and the presidential entourage departed for Kyiv, Ukraine, from Przemysl Glowny Station in Przemysl, Poland, on Tuesday (June 28) evening local time. The presidential entourage boarded a special train prepared by the Ukrainian government.
Jokowi is expected to meet Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his effort to initiate peace between Ukraine and Russia. During his visit, the president also provides humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian people.
Related news: President Jokowi brings humanitarian assistance for people in Ukraine
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Translator: Rangga Pandu AJ, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Suharto
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