Heru Andriyanto, Jakarta – US President Joe Biden has sent a personal letter to Prabowo Subianto to congratulate him on his lead in the Feb. 12 presidential election.

A copy of the letter, which was dated March 12, was posted on Prabowo's Instagram account on Thursday.

"I want to extend my congratulations to the people of Indonesia on a successful election – a testament to our shared commitment to democracy – and to you for your lead in the presidential vote count," the letter reads.

"I look forward to the announcement of the official results."

Biden's letter was handed to Prabowo by US Ambassador to ASEAN Yohannes Abraham on Thursday. It came nearly a week after both countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations.

"For 75 years, Indonesia and the United States have grown closer – bound by our shared values and democratic, pluralistic vision for the world," Biden wrote.

"Together, we have also safeguarded international stability, including forging a future for the Indo-Pacific that is free, open, prosperous, and secure," he added.

"We are stronger – and the world is safer – when Indonesia and the United States stand together."

In response, Prabowo wrote that he was "deeply honored" to receive a congratulatory letter from Biden. He also thanked Abraham for personally delivering the letter.

"We remain committed to strengthening the historical bond between our two countries through further cooperation, while we continue to celebrate the friendship forged between Indonesia and the United States for over 75 years," Prabowo wrote.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/biden-sends-congratulatory-letter-to-prabow