Indonesian Ambassador Speaks on BRICS+ at Webster Athens

Indonesian Ambassador Dr. Bebeb A.K.N. Djundjunan speaks to students about BRICS+ during the Ambassadors Forum. Photo by Fotis Grivas  

Webster Athens welcomed H.E. Dr. Bebeb A.K.N Djundjunan, ambassador at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Athens, to address students at the Ambassadors Forum on April 29, 2025, following Indonesia’s formal admission as a full member of BRICS.  

Dr. Djundjunan, Ambassador of Indonesia to Greece since 2021, brings more than 30 years of diplomatic experience. A legal and maritime expert, he has held key roles at Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, the United Nations, World Trade Organization and Association of Southeast Asian Nations. 

In his presentation titled “Indonesia in the Evolving BRICS+ Landscape: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in a Shifting Global Order,” Djundjunan highlighted Indonesia’s aspirations within the BRICS + framework, underscoring the country’s vision to become a top-four global economy by 2045 through innovation, infrastructure and education.  

BRICS, formed in 2009 and later joined by South Africa, is a bloc of major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The group aims to boost economic cooperation, political dialogue and global influence. Recently expanded to BRICS+, it focuses on infrastructure, innovation and development, giving emerging markets a stronger voice in global affairs.  

Djundjunan emphasized, “Indonesia’s participation in BRICS+ is not about replacing old alliances but about complementing them and creating new pathways of open, forward-looking cooperation.” 

Students attend a lecture by Dr. Bebeb A.K.N. Djundjunan, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Greece, and discuss issues shaping global norms.  Photo by Fotis Grivas 

Addressing an audience of students and faculty, Djundjunan explored the shifting dynamics of global governance, including the rise of multipolarity and the importance of emerging economies in shaping global norms. He outlined Indonesia’s role as a bridge between regions and a strong voice for the Global South, noting the nation’s efforts in promoting sustainable growth, digital transformation and green energy.  

“Indonesia’s engagement with BRICS+ reflects its long-standing commitment to dialogue, balance and inclusive development,” Djundjunan said, inspiring students to think critically about the country’s expanding role on the world stage. 

Rector Vasilis J. Botopoulos presents a Webster Athens T-shirt to Dr. Bebeb A.K.N. Djundjunan, Ambassador of Indonesia to Greece, in recognition of his lecture at the Ambassadors Forum.  Photo by Fotis Grivas  

The event brought together Webster Athens Rector, faculty members from the International Relations and Diplomacy Department and students from a range of majors, including international relations, political and social sciences, communications, psychology and film studies. 

To introduce guests to Indonesian culture, the embassy also offered a selection of traditional snacks — Semar Mendem, Pastel and Talam Singkong Merah Putih — bringing a taste of Indonesia to Webster Athens Cultural Center in Athens. 
 
About Webster Athens: Webster Athens is the only fully owned and accredited U.S. university campus in Greece, bringing the best of American education to the heart of Athens. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs that combine academic excellence with a unique cultural immersion, preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world. 
 
For more information about Webster Athens and its scholarship opportunities, contact Webster Athens Admissions.