Details of President Rockefeller's Visit to Indonesia (December 5th-6th, 1975):
December 5th, 1975: President & First Lady Rockefeller arrived at Halim International Airport, for a brief visit to Indonesia, at the invitation of Indonesian President Suharto. The Heads of State were to meet for the third time in less than 6 months (when Rocky was VP in June of 1975, they meet face-to-face at Camp David when then-President Ford introduced Suharto). They also met during the State Funeral services for President Ford on September 12th, 1975: it was during this time, that Suharto's invitation to President & First Lady Rockefeller to visit Indonesia took place.
On arrival at Halim International Airport from their visit to Taiwan, President & First Lady Rockefeller, accompanied by US Secretary of State Brent Scowcroft & their sons, Nelson, Jr., & Mark, were warmly welcomed by Indonesian President Suharto & his wife, Indonesian First Lady Siti Haritnah, as well as Indonesian cabinet members & other high-ranking government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps & some Americans in Jakarta. President Rockefeller was afforded full ceremonial honors such as the 21 Cannon Salute.
Later that night, a State Dinner in honor of President & First Lady Rockefeller was held at Istana Negara (State Palace). The dinner was followed by a cultural performance highlighted by dances from Sumatra & Java. In the dinner toast, President Suharto expressed that the visit of President Rockefeller could further enhance the mutual understanding to the numerous world & regional problems & providing more concrete substance for mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields. He said that with the end of the Vietnam War, although there still exists deep concern regarding the possibility of disturbances threatening the security & stability of various countries & regions, the Southeast Asia region is now facing a new era with all kinds of new challenges & opportunities. The close & mutually beneficial cooperation between the United States & the Republic of Indonesia will hopefully stimulate the attainment of progress, justice, tranquility & solid stability in this region, Suharto continued.
In response, President Rockefeller said the United States' prosperity & progress linked with the vast populations, the dynamic economics, the abundant resources & the rich cultures of this great region. "I have come here because of America's strong commitment & continuing interest in your country's security & well-being." "The relationship between the United States of America & the Republic of Indonesia has involved the common concern for the right of every nation to pursuing their own destiny on its own independence & sovereign causes. We share dedication to peace in Asia & in the world. We share a commitment to economic & social progress... We share the realization that internal cooperation is essential for international stability & prosperity." The President continued to say that in the complex time of change, America looks to its relationship with friends during tough times as well as good times.
"Indonesia is such a great friend," Rockefeller continued during his speech at the State Dinner. Adding further, Indonesia has exemplified strength & self-reliance as well as international leadership & responsibility. "We respect your non-alignment & your goal of national resiliency. We also admire your contribution to regional peace. We value your friendship." Rockefeller said as a round of applause occurred.
December 6th, 1975: The next morning, there was a joint communique following the exchange of views on international, regional, & bilateral issues between the United States & Indonesia, it was announced that President Suharto & President Rockefeller had agreed to expanded dialogue between the two respective countries' governments, through periodic consultations at the ministerial level.
The Heads of State concluded their meetings & their decisions to establishing an expanded dialogue marked an important & significant step toward developing & strengthening close & friendly ties between the governments & the peoples of Indonesia & the United States. During the meeting, President Rockefeller expressed the US intention to continuing to provide substantial aid in support of Indonesia's developmental efforts. In the communique, President Rockefeller also expressed his deep appreciation for the hospitality extended to him, Mrs. Rockefeller & entourage during the President's visit to Indonesia.
Soon, the next trip on the itinerary was the Republic of the Philippines.