Indonesia's Minister of Culture and Uruguayan Ambassador Discuss Cultural Diplomacy
Indonesia’s Minister of Culture Fadli Zon held strategic dialogue with Uruguayan Ambassador Cristina Gonzalez at the Culture Ministry Building in Senayan, Jakarta. The meeting marked the beginning of formal diplomatic relations and reinforcement of strategic cooperation in cultural advancement between Indonesia and Uruguay.
During the meeting, Fadli stated that Uruguay and Indonesia possess significant potential for cultural collaboration. He emphasised that the Indonesian government welcomes bilateral cooperation and encourages the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a legal framework for various strategic programmes such as artist residencies, strengthening the creative economy, and promoting cultural heritage at the international level.
“We very much welcome bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Uruguay, particularly in the field of culture. As a follow-up, we can establish a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for various important cooperation initiatives. As we know, both Indonesia and Uruguay are nations rich in culture, and this is the right moment to strengthen bilateral cooperation between our two countries,” Fadli stated.
Fadli further explained that culture is one of the most important elements in building diplomatic relations between nations. In 2026, Indonesia and Uruguay enter a significant moment marking 60 years of diplomatic relations. In commemoration of this milestone, Fadli proposed several bilateral programmes that can showcase the culture of each nation, such as art exhibitions, museum strengthening, and Indonesian-Uruguayan artist exchanges.
“We strongly support cultural practitioners in participating in international residencies, including amongst Uruguayan and Indonesian artists. Residencies are an excellent programme, as they serve as a platform to showcase the cultural expression of each nation. We have already developed several programme designs; perhaps in the future, Indonesia and Uruguay can develop their own ideas further,” Fadli stated.
He also requested Uruguay’s support for Indonesia’s candidacy as a member of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) for the forthcoming period, with elections scheduled for June 2026. Additionally, Fadli encouraged further discussion regarding TIERRA VIVA, a cultural exhibition showcasing works by Latin American artists, planned to be held at the Indonesian National Gallery.
He expressed hope that the cultural diplomacy established with Uruguay would soon be translated into concrete action to build a cultural ecosystem between the two nations.
“Indonesia and Uruguay can make culture the foundation for strengthening sustainable bilateral relations. To that end, we can immediately establish cooperation in various fields, particularly in the cultural sector,” Fadli said.
In line with Minister Fadli’s statement, Uruguayan Ambassador Cristina Gonzalez expressed hope for continued cultural diplomacy with Indonesia.
“This strategic dialogue between Uruguay and Indonesia is important as it strengthens bilateral relations through the advancement of culture in both nations. We are very pleased to continue synergy in various sectors and build people-to-people contact between Uruguay and Indonesia,” Gonzalez concluded.