Fostering Cultural Diplomacy, Indonesia Pushes Artifact Repatriation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is stepping up cultural diplomacy efforts in Europe while accelerating the repatriation of cultural artifacts held overseas. The move was highlighted during a meeting between Culture Minister, Fadli Zon and Indonesian Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union, Andy Rachmianto in Jakarta on May 4, 2026.

The Ministry of Culture said the meeting marked a strategic moment to deepen Indonesia’s cultural engagement in Europe and expand international cooperation. It also focused on returning historical objects considered part of Indonesia’s national heritage.

Fadli Zon praised the ambassador’s active support for Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy agenda in Europe. “We are pleased that Ambassador Andy is there, and he also understands cultural matters,” the minister said.

During the discussion, both sides reviewed progress in efforts to repatriate Indonesian cultural objects located in several European countries. Ambassador Andy said communication with the Belgian government had already been established.

He added that the next step would be strengthening coordination and exploring more concrete follow-up measures. The ambassador also underlined the importance of drafting a memorandum of understanding as a framework for future cooperation.

Fadli welcomed the proposal and said the agreement should be prepared quickly and constructively, including provisions related to repatriation. He stressed that returning cultural objects is a strategic priority because it concerns Indonesia’s history and national identity.

Additionally, the minister added that provenance research and historical studies are essential to ensure the return process becomes part of broader historical justice efforts. Indonesia is also pursuing similar initiatives with the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Russia, India, France, and the United States.

The meeting also touched on stronger Indonesia-European Union cooperation ahead of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-EU relations in 2027. The ministry said Indonesia remains committed to using cultural diplomacy as a strategic tool to expand partnerships while safeguarding national heritage.