Foreign Ministry Hopes IGS 2026 in Makassar Will Yield Investment Diplomacy
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs hopes the International Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) Diplomatic Tour 2026, attended by dozens of partner country delegations from 23–25 June 2026 in Makassar, South Sulawesi, will yield economic investment diplomacy across various potential aspects.
“Through this IGS moment, we are opening doors and facilitating what the regions need,” said Ani Nigeriawati, Director of Public Diplomacy at the Ministry’s Directorate General of Information and Public Diplomacy, during a press conference ahead of the IGS in Makassar on Monday.
She said Makassar was chosen as the host city for the IGS Diplomatic Tour 2026 because it possesses numerous investment-worthy potentials, such as tourism, culinary heritage, and more.
“First, promoting the potential that Makassar has, from trade and investment aspects to tourism and its rich culinary scene. Every region in Indonesia has culinary potential; Indonesia is very rich in that regard,” she stated.
These elements, she noted, can be converted into business and investment potential while also bridging communication between international delegations.
“Because they don’t know each other yet, they must first get acquainted, explore opportunities, and then establish communication. The follow-up and output we hope for is an effective initial gateway for building networks, communication, and ultimately cooperative relationships. Secondly, we also hope to spark interest in exporting Makassar’s flagship products,” Ani said.
She added that this would open wider investment opportunities across various potentials, including sister-city cooperation or city diplomacy.
Thirdly, she expressed hope that the visiting delegates would bring tourists from their home countries to enjoy Makassar’s natural beauty and understand its history.
Firman Hamid Pagarra, Assistant III for General Administration of the Makassar City Government, added that this event serves as a means to enhance collaboration between the Makassar city administration and the attending partner countries.
Furthermore, the Makassar city government can establish communication with representatives of Indonesian embassies abroad to organise cultural festivals encompassing arts, food, and business forums. It also allows for the exchange of information regarding policies and regulations for products to be exported to partner countries.
Regional governments from 24 regencies and cities across South Sulawesi are expected to participate in business meetings to showcase their tourism potential, including areas such as Toraja and Maros.