ADDRESS BY H.E. MR. Vasyl Hamianin, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Indonesia 

to the mass media of the Republic of Indonesia

February 09, 2022, JAKARTA

Merdeka!

Today I have the honor and pleasure to address the media of the Republic of Indonesia on the wonderful occasion of the Indonesian Association of Journalists and the National Press Day. I congratulate all of you who are keeping an eye on the information pulse of world events around the clock.

For me personally, real journalists have always been the embodiment of fearlessness and honor, guardians of authenticity and impartiality, who are always at the forefront of events, which is extremely important in today's fast-paced era of information technology.

I sincerely congratulate you and wish you creative inspiration and success in your professional activities, high ratings and respect from readers, implementation of noble initiatives in the name of global peace, stability, development and prosperity, and most importantly - more positive news!

Today, we are also honoring the distinguished Adam Malik, Indonesia's national hero and third Vice President, one of the pioneers of Indonesian journalism, a diplomat who played an important role in the struggle for Indonesia's declaration of independence and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The example of his life and struggle proves the truth that is relevant for today's Ukraine: to be independent, we must be strong and focused. In eight years of opposing Russian aggression, journalists in Ukraine's Donbas and Crimea have shown themselves to be real warriors without fear or doubt, many of whom have been imprisoned in Russia simply for not being afraid, to tell the truth, and openly tell the world about Putin's evil.

I will not miss the fate of Muslim journalists in the occupied Crimea, convicted by the Russian regime on false charges - their stories can be found in the project "Crimea. 5 am” (https://5am.crimea.ua/en/book/), which provides up-to-date information on persecuted and repressed civil activists, Muslims and media workers.

In the modern world, the name "Russia" has become synonymous with terrorism and repression, including against the Crimean Tatars - part of the global Muslim community, which the Kremlin is trying to deprive not only the right to vote but also the historical homeland. The Crimean Tatar people continue to fight against injustice and terror and - we believe! - will definitely win. After all, today Ukraine has a strong army, unprecedented international support and the faith of Ukrainians in their independence.

Thank you to the friendly people of Indonesia and to you, dear journalists and media, for your strong support in our struggle, because Indonesia has won the right to exist and be independent in a difficult battle with arms. Ukraine is currently fighting for the same values - freedom, independence and happiness.

Only together, by supporting each other, will we make the world better and freer from violence and injustice.

Ladies and gentlemen, journalists of a free Indonesia - may you work easily and with inspiration for the benefit of your country and people, may peace and harmony always reign in Indonesia.

Merdeka!

Ambassador of Ukraine                                                                                                                                                                                                             Vasyl Hamianin