United States Recognizes Indonesia and Establishes Diplomatic Relations

Japan's surrender in 1945 ended its occupation of Indonesia. As the Netherlands sought to restore colonial rule, the United States faced a conflict between support for national self determination and its relationship with a European partner. [1] [2] [3]

An Indonesian representative and a Dutch diplomat called together at the State Department on 22 December 1949 to announce the forthcoming transfer of sovereignty. Five days later, the Netherlands relinquished sovereignty to the Republic of the United States of Indonesia. Washington recognised the new republic on 28 December, when H. Merle Cochran presented his credentials to President Sukarno and established diplomatic relations. [4] [2]

Indonesian nationalists had proclaimed independence in 1945 and fought the Dutch attempt to restore colonial rule. Years of conflict and negotiation preceded the settlement at The Hague. Cochran had served as the American representative on the United Nations Commission for Indonesia before becoming ambassador, bringing his experience of that dispute into the new relationship. [3] [5]

Harry Truman welcomed Indonesian sovereignty and praised the agreement reached at The Hague. His statement stressed peaceful cooperation after the struggle over colonial rule. [3]

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