Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – The Indonesian young people have a crucial role to play in shaping a more connected, resilient, and inclusive world, according to Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri.

Speaking about the importance of international solidarity, Ambassador AlDhaheri encouraged Indonesia’s younger generation to embrace cooperation, celebrate diversity, and strengthen connections across cultures and borders.

“International solidarity is not an abstract concept; it is a practical necessity in today’s interconnected world,” he said recently, noting that global challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and humanitarian crises cannot be addressed by any single country alone, making international cooperation more important than ever.

“As future leaders, young people have a vital role to play in embracing cooperation, respecting diversity, and championing unity across borders. They can be the architects of a borderless future,” he said.

According to the ambassador, the values of openness, mutual respect, and collaboration are already deeply embedded within Indonesian society and culture.

He expressed confidence that Indonesia’s youth can become a powerful force for positive change, both nationally and globally.

AlDhaheri also emphasized that the next generation is expected to play a key role in preserving and strengthening the long-standing friendship between Indonesia and the UAE, especially as the two countries prepare to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.

Beyond diplomacy and economic cooperation, the ambassador highlighted the importance of cultural connections in bringing people together.

If asked to choose one aspect of Emirati culture that could serve as a bridge between the UAE and Indonesia, AlDhaheri said his answer would be gahwa, or traditional Arabic coffee.

In the UAE, gahwa is far more than a beverage. It is a symbol of hospitality, generosity, friendship, and respect. Offering gahwa is often the first gesture extended to guests, inviting them to sit together, exchange stories, and build meaningful connections.

“Gahwa is more than a drink; it is a simple yet meaningful tradition that brings people together,” he said.

The ambassador noted that the tradition shares striking similarities with Indonesian cultural values, particularly the spirit of gotong royong, community togetherness, and the warm hospitality that Indonesians are known for.

Whether welcoming guests into a home, gathering with neighbors, or supporting one another during difficult times, Indonesians and Emiratis share a common belief in the importance of human connection, he said.

“In many ways, gahwa reflects values that resoanate strongly with Indonesian culture. Despite different geographies and traditions, the heart of our cultures is remarkably similar: welcoming others with openness, warmth, and genuine hospitality,” AlDhaheri said.

For the ambassador, these shared values demonstrate that cultural differences need not be barriers. Instead, they can become bridges that bring people and nations closer together.

As Indonesia's young generation increasingly engages with the global community, AlDhaheri hoped they would continue to uphold the spirit of cooperation, respect, and solidarity that has long connected the peoples of Indonesia and the UAE.

“By carrying forward these values, the next generation will continue to strengthen the spirit of partnership and mutual respect that has long defined the relationship between our two countries,” the ambassador said.

Reporting by Indonesia Window