According to an official statement received Friday, Albanese arrived at Subianto’s residence with other Australian government officials and was welcomed directly by the president.
Several ministers and deputy ministers from the Merah Putih Cabinet accompanied Subianto, including Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid, and Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Angga Raka Prabowo.
Albanese wore a brown batik shirt that matched Subianto’s attire. After exchanging handshakes, they entered the room to the accompaniment of music.
The dinner ambience was warm and relaxed. While dining, Subianto also engaged in conversation with Albanese.
During dinner, Bobby, Subianto’s cat, was brought in using a stroller labeled “Bobby Kertanegara.” Bobby was dressed in a brown batik outfit.
Bobby’s stroller was placed to Albanese’s left. The Australian PM then petted Bobby’s head and even held him, prompting applause from everyone in the room.
Albanese then presented the scarf to Bobby and personally placed it on him. The red fabric was printed with the words "Australia (heart symbol) Indonesia." Albanese also gave Bobby some snacks.
This visit marks Albanese’s first overseas trip since being re-elected in the Australian federal election and sworn in on Tuesday (May 13).
In his welcome speech, Subianto expressed his gratitude to Albanese and the Australian officials who had come to Indonesia.
He also stated that maintaining and strengthening the relationship between close neighbors is important.
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Translator: Fathur Rochman, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Primayanti
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