Indonesia, Qatar discuss golden jubilee cultural partnership

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Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian and Qatari governments discussed expanding cultural cooperation to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, including exhibitions, cultural exchanges and a bilateral cooperation framework, Indonesia’s Culture Ministry said on Thursday.

The discussion took place during a meeting between Culture Minister Fadli Zon and Qatar’s Ambassador to Indonesia Sultan bin Mubarak Saad Al-Dosari, according to a ministry statement.

“We admire how Qatar has become increasingly active in preserving and promoting its culture because culture is one of our greatest strengths,” Fadli said.

One initiative proposed for the golden jubilee of diplomatic ties, established in 1976, is a stamp exhibition highlighting the cultural diversity of both countries.

Fadli also proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide an overarching framework for bilateral cultural cooperation.

He said the agreement should lead to concrete initiatives to strengthen bilateral relations, expand cultural exchanges and enhance cultural diplomacy internationally.

Al-Dosari welcomed the proposal to commemorate the golden jubilee and suggested including Qatar National Day celebrations featuring a painting exhibition and an orchestral performance.

The minister and ambassador also discussed artworks displayed at the Culture Ministry, including a portrait of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari, an Indonesian and South African national hero who spread Islam in South Africa and Sri Lanka.

“He is the only person recognized as a national hero by both Indonesia and South Africa. Nelson Mandela described Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari as ‘one of Africa’s best sons’,” Fadli said.

Fadli was accompanied by the ministry’s Director General of Cultural Diplomacy, Promotion and Cooperation, Endah T.D. Retnoastuti, and Expert Staff for Inter-Institutional Relations Ismunandar.

Al-Dosari was accompanied by Qatar Embassy Second Secretary Saad Mohammed I.M. Al-Emadi and political researcher Hayder Alhadey.