Yogyakarta and Qatar Explore Cultural Cooperation

Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X received a visit from the Ambassador of Qatar to Indonesia, Sultan bin Mubarak Saad Al-Dosari, at the Kepatihan complex in Yogyakarta on Monday (3/7). The meeting discussed the exploration of strategic cooperation in the cultural sector between the Government of Qatar and DIY. Ambassador Sultan bin Mubarak stated that the visit aimed to introduce himself as the new official while strengthening the already close ties with Yogyakarta. He affirmed his commitment to realising various cultural programmes and events in the future. “We discussed forms of cooperation to be realised between Qatar and DIY, especially in the cultural field. There will be many programmes and events ahead, but the details will be a surprise,” said Sultan bin Mubarak after the meeting. Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X explained that the meeting was an initial step to build deeper communication. A key point discussed was DIY’s involvement in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Indonesia-Qatar bilateral relations, which will culminate at the end of 2026. “A Qatari arts delegation is scheduled to be present in Yogyakarta on 11-12 December 2026 to commemorate 50 years of bilateral relations. We are still awaiting the technical details regarding the concept of the event,” Sri Sultan explained. The meeting also revisited plans for Qatar to develop a museum in DIY. This project had previously been delayed and cancelled due to the conflict situation in Gaza. Sri Sultan added that the head of the museum from Qatar is planned to visit at the end of this year to discuss the continuation of the project. This follow-up meeting is expected to provide clarity on the technical aspects of the previously stalled museum development.