Jakarta: Negotiations between Russia and Indonesia on space cooperation have commenced, as confirmed by Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov to RIA Novosti. The talks, which began on Saturday, aim to explore promising avenues for collaboration in the space sector. Ambassador Tolchenov emphasized Indonesia’s keen interest in joining the exclusive group of spacefaring nations.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Indonesia aspires to establish its own spaceport and send astronauts into space, leveraging Russian technology to expand its satellite constellation. Ambassador Tolchenov highlighted the various sectors of potential cooperation, noting Russia’s capability to provide the necessary technologies and solutions.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is reportedly interested in deepening Indonesia’s collaboration with Russia on space initiatives. Ambassador Tolchenov mentioned the involvement of both practitioners and politicians in these discussions, underscoring President Subianto’s personal commitment to advancing space cooperation with Russia.
Nikita Shilikov, head of Rossotrudnichestvo’s cultural center in Jakarta, stated that the two nations are enhancing educational ties to train future space professionals. Russia has offered grants to Indonesian students through Roscosmos, aiming to boost interest in space exploration among Indonesian youth, with Russia serving as a mentor in the field.
On April 12, the International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated, commemorating Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin’s historic space flight in 1961. A ceremony marking the occasion was held in Jakarta with a flower-laying at the monument to Gagarin.