RRI.CO.ID, Jakata - Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Ecuador to the Republic of Indonesia, Luis Guillermo Arellano Jibaja, emphasized the important role of culture in strengthening relations between Indonesia and Ecuador. He said bilateral ties are built not only through political and economic cooperation, but also through cultural diplomacy.

Speaking to RRI Voice of Indonesia in Jakarta on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Luis Guillermo, noted that culture, identity, and gastronomy serve as important tools for bringing the two countries closer together. He believes these elements can strengthen people-to-people connections, which form the foundation of long-term cooperation.

Luis Guillermo, also highlighted the similarities shared by Indonesia and Ecuador in their textile-making traditions. These traditions have been passed down through indigenous communities and remain an important part of each country's cultural identity.

“Because it's a contribution of Ecuador and Indonesia, we share the same aspects of how the Ecuadorian aboriginal people work in order to produce special textiles, which are used not only here, but around the world,” Luis Guillermo Arellano Jibaja said.

According to him, traditional textiles carry not only cultural value but also serve as symbols of identity that are recognized internationally. Such products reflect the knowledge and craftsmanship that have been preserved and passed down through generations.

He added that culture can serve as a bridge to enhance mutual understanding between the people of Indonesia and Ecuador. “For that reason, the Embassy of Ecuador believes that culture, identity, and gastronomy are the main words in order to close relations with Indonesia,” he said.

His remarks are in line with the Weaving Colors Without Borders: Indonesia and Ecuador exhibition held at Jakarta's Textile Museum. The exhibition, which runs from May 13 to June 7, 2026, was organized as part of cultural cooperation between the two countries through their weaving traditions.

He expressed hope that continued cultural exchanges would create broader opportunities for cooperation in the future. In addition to strengthening bilateral relations, cultural diplomacy is also expected to promote greater understanding of each country's cultural heritage among their respective societies.