On Thursday, May 26th, Ambassadors Blake and Nina Hachigian hosted the 2016 U.S. Embassy Jakarta Independence Day celebration at Ambassador Blake’s official residence in central Jakarta. 1,400 guests attended the event, including representatives of Indonesian and foreign government, business, and civil society.

Ambassadors Blake and Hachigian delivered opening remarks. Several Indonesian Ministers including Luhut Pandjaitan, Rudiantara, and Susi Pudjiastuti delivered remarks on behalf of the Indonesian government.

The theme for this year’s event was “Indonesia and America Working Together in Partnership.” Guests sampled a variety of American food and enjoyed music provided by Seven Fleet Navy Band. Attendees also viewed a model of the planned new U.S. embassy building in Jakarta, had their photo taken in front of an F-16 jet, President Jokowi and President Obama cut out and spoke with U.S. government representatives about education exchanges, study opportunities in the United States, and U.S. assistance programs in Indonesia.

July 4, 2016 will mark the 240th anniversary of the independence of the United States. For democracies of any age, national days are an important occasion to take pride in past accomplishments and reflect on national history and values. U.S. citizens and government representatives celebrating Independence Day on Thursday were happy to have the opportunity to celebrate in Jakarta.