Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Damascus organized a reception on Thursday on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of its Independence Day, at Dar al-Assad for Culture and Arts. In a speech during the ceremony, Indonesian Ambassador to Damascus Wajid Fauzi stressed the depth and strength of the historical Indonesian-Syrian relations based on mutual respect for the sovereignty and independence of the two countries. Ambassador Fauzi pointed out that his country, during its struggle to defend its independence, never forgot Syria's support, which led to strengthening friendly relations between both countries. He expressed his thanks and gratitude to Syria for its support to the Indonesian embassy, wishing the Syrian people further prosperity and progress. The ambassador stated that his country's independence is the result of a long struggle and sacrifice by the people to gain independence from colonialism, noting Indonesia's great effort over the past 79 years to overcome hardships and transform chal lenges into opportunities. In turn, Minister of Culture, Dr. Lubana Mashouh, stressed that celebrating the Indonesian National Day in Damascus, in light of the difficult circumstances imposed by the West on Syria, carries many messages, the most important of which is the emphasis that countries adhering to their principles and morals do not change their attitudes by changing circumstances. Minister Mashouh noted Indonesia's support for the Syrian people during the terrorist war imposed on Syria, its support for Syria's sovereignty and independence of its decision, rejection of any foreign interference in its internal affairs, in addition to the great assistance to address the effects of the earthquake that struck Syria in February of last year. Source: Syrian Arab News Agency