REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The Indonesian Embassy in Damascus, Syria, organized a silaturahmi (friendly visit) for the Indonesian citizens to commemorate the country's 70th Independence Day.

"After the flag hoisting ceremony, we gathered here for a silaturahmi. We also held a dialog with the Indonesian citizens to discuss the problems being faced in Syria," Indonesian Ambassador to Syria Djoko Harjanto stated in a press release received here on Tuesday.

The event was attended by the embassy's staff, students, migrant workers, and local residents.

"If the condition is secure, we will hold the commemoration ceremony for Indonesia's proclamation of independence on a much grander scale next year," Harjanto noted.

Furthermore, Djoko shed light on the current conditions in the country. He reiterated that the Indonesian government supported the resolution of the Syrian conflict by upholding the principles of sovereignty and freedom.

In addition, he urged the Indonesian students in Syria to fill the visa applications honestly.

During the meeting, some Indonesian migrant workers posed questions on how to find a job in the country after returning from Syria, whereas other citizens were keen to know about the Embassy's efforts in tackling human trafficking in Syria.

Responding to a question, the ambassador expressed concern over the influx of Indonesian migrant workers in Syria. In fact, the Indonesian government has imposed a moratorium on sending workers and has repatriated all Indonesian nationals from Syria due to the deteriorating security situation in Syria.

According to the ambassador, the Indonesian government has declared migrant workers, who are sent to Syria, as the victims of human trafficking.

The ambassador confirmed that the embassy continues to provide protection and to help protect the rights of the migrant workers who have faced problems with their employers and agents.

"If the migrant workers are not paid for seven years, I will defend them in ensuring that their rights are fulfilled," he emphasized.

Ikuti Whatsapp Channel Republika