RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is strengthening cultural diplomacy as a strategic instrument of its foreign engagement, with culture positioned as a bridge to foster mutual understanding and international cooperation. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon underscored the message during the Morocco-Indonesia Art Night themed Bridging Moroccan-Indonesian Civilizations in Jakarta on Tuesday July 28, 2026.

The event, jointly organized by Indonesia's Ministry of Culture and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco, brought together artists and musicians from both countries. The collaborative performances highlighted the role of cultural exchange in reinforcing the longstanding friendship between Indonesia and Morocco.

Fadli said cultural diplomacy has become one of the most effective forms of soft power in today's increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. According to him, culture creates opportunities for dialogue, builds mutual trust, and strengthens people-to-people connections that form the foundation of lasting international partnerships.

"Culture creates spaces for dialogue where differences exist, builds mutual trust in times of uncertainty, and strengthens people-to-people connections that form the foundation of lasting international partnership," Fadli said. He added that culture also opens new opportunities for cooperation in education, research, tourism, cultural industries, and the creative economy.

The minister noted that the relationship between Indonesia and Morocco extends far beyond formal diplomatic ties established in 1956. He said the two countries have been connected for centuries through the exchange of knowledge, shared spiritual values, and cultural traditions.

Fadli cited the 14th-century journey of Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta to the Kingdom of Samudera Pasai in Aceh as one of the earliest recorded links between the two civilizations. He also highlighted the influence of North African scholarly traditions and Sufi orders in shaping Indonesia's religious and cultural landscape.

"The Morocco-Indonesia Art Night stands as a vivid example of cultural diplomacy in action. Through music, poetry, and artistic expression, culture becomes a common language that transcends borders and brings our peoples closer together," Fadli said.

He expressed hope that the initiative would lead to broader cooperation between Indonesia and Morocco through artist exchanges, cultural heritage preservation, film and music collaboration, academic partnerships, research, and the development of cultural and creative industries. According to Fadli, such collaboration will help strengthen friendship between the two nations while contributing to a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future.