Indonesia, Bangladesh Move to Deepen Cultural Cooperation Ahead of 55 Years of Diplomatic Relations

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: Indonesian Ambassador to Bangladesh, H.E. Ms. Listyowati, paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh's Minister of Cultural Affairs, H.E. Mr. Nital Roy Chowdhury, to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral cultural cooperation and expand people-to-people ties.

The meeting, held on July 29, was also attended by State Minister for Cultural Affairs H.E. Mr. Ali Newaz Mahmood Khoym, MP, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.

During the discussions, both sides emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as a key pillar of the Bangladesh-Indonesia relationship. They agreed that stronger cultural exchanges would help deepen mutual understanding and further enhance bilateral relations.

The two countries explored opportunities for joint initiatives in a wide range of cultural sectors, including performing arts, visual arts, cultural heritage preservation, museums, literature, handicrafts, and the creative economy.

The meeting also highlighted preparations for the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Indonesia in 2027, with both sides expressing interest in organizing collaborative cultural programmes to mark the milestone.

Ambassador Listyowati also expressed Indonesia's interest in strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh following Indonesia's election to the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICICH) for the 2026–2030 term.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cultural engagement as an important avenue for strengthening the longstanding friendship and partnership between Bangladesh and Indonesia.