TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Russia intended to open a consulate general in Denpasar, Bali to facilitate the needs of its numerous tourists on the island. Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov, who has only been on duty for two months in the country, announced on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, that the government took the decision in July this year.

“I hope that by the end of this year, the Consul General will visit Denpasar and start his activities there. But first, he wants to find a place and organize the operation of this consulate general,” Tolchenov said at a press conference at his residence in South Jakarta on Tuesday.

He explained that the presence of a consular representative office in Bali is crucial since many Russians travel to the Island of the Gods.

Based on data from the Bali Provincial Central Statistics Agency (BPS) as of February 19, 2024, approximately 144,104 Russian tourists visited Bali. Currently, an estimated 40,000 to 45,000 Russian citizens reside in Bali.

Tolchenov mentioned his experience in Phuket, Thailand, where the Russian Consulate General took three years to establish. He emphasized the logistical challenges, including finding suitable premises and relocating necessary equipment. “So, this is quite a long process.”

In addition to the opening of the consulate general, Tolchenov also discussed the importance of establishing direct flights between Russia and Indonesia. He expressed optimism that Russian companies would be ready to operate these flights by September or October 2024.

“Russian companies are ready to fly. If the Indonesian authority can resolve minor technical issues related to aircraft maintenance and servicing in Bali, I’m quite sure that flights will be opened,” Tolchenov concluded.

NABIILA AZZAHRA

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