Indonesia Commemorates ASEM Day 2024 with Asian, European Culture-themed Events in Surakarta

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Commemorating ASEM Day 2024, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs invited representatives of countries in the Asian and European regions to visit the city of Surakarta, Central Java for discussions on cultural diversity and learn to make batik as part of the series of events (6-7/3), according to the ministry.

As reported from kemlu.go.id, the theme of this year's ASEM Day is Cultural Diversity: A Shared Value and Celebrated Wealth among ASEM Countries. In addition to being one of the pillars of ASEM, the cultural theme was raised to reemphasize the spirit of dialogue and cooperation as a unifier of Asian and European countries. ASEM Day 2024 was attended by the diplomatic corps of ASEM countries in Jakarta and the academic community in Surakarta.

The series of events marking ASEM Day 2024 began with an official dinner attended by KGPAA Mangkoenagoro X Bhre Sudjiwo from Puro Mangkunegaran on March 6, 2024. In his speech, he emphasized that values and richness in culture are important for the creation of cooperation in the context between countries.

The activity on the second day was officially opened by the Executive Director of Asia – Europe Foundation (ASEF), Ambassador Toru Morikawa, and Director of American and European Intra and Inter-regional Cooperation, Nidya Kartikasari. In his remarks, Ambassador Morikawa expressed his appreciation for the collaboration of the Indonesian government in bridging dialogue between the Asian and European regions through culture. The cultural exchange in ASEM Day serves as a stronger comprehensive collaboration, bringing the two regions together as members of the global community.

In line with the Ambassador's remarks, Director of American and European Intra and Inter-regional Cooperation stated that the theme of Culture on ASEM Day 2024 reflects a commitment to recognize the richness of cultural diversity as the foundation of stronger and more comprehensive collaboration between Asia and Europe. For Indonesia, culture is part of the nation's identity and an important part of partnerships between ASEM partner countries.

Cultural discussion was held in a talk show that presented panelists of the Director of Energy Development and Cultural Institutions of the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia; and ASEF's Director of Culture, Ms. Valentina Riccardi, and a virtual presentation by the Director of UNESCO Jakarta's Multisectoral Regional Office, Ms. Maki Katsuno Hayashikawa. The talk show was moderated by the Head of UNS International Relations Study Program, Mr. Ign. Agung Satyawan.

Director of Cultural Human Resources and Institution Development, Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Restu Gunawan said that Indonesia as a superpower in terms of culture has been recognized by UNESCO. Director Restu also mentioned that Indonesian spice commodities have a major impact on the dynamics of world culture. He emphasized that we are all Cultural Ambassadors where the introduction and dissemination of Indonesian culture can be manifested in our daily lives such as in the form of handicrafts and culinary.

Meanwhile, ASEF's Director of Culture explained that ASEF has a portfolio to develop culture as a bridge of collaboration between Asia and Europe through various cultural arts platforms, both directly with festivals, and virtually with Culture360.asef.org platforms.

Ms. Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, Multisectoral Director of the UNESCO Regional Office through her virtual presentation, said that events like this are a way to bridge intercultural dialogue and peace. Cultural heritage requires cross-border cooperation to combat emerging challenges such as armed conflict and illegal trade)

The presentation of these speakers sparked high enthusiasm from dozens of students who were present directly at the activity location. These questions prove that young people have a great sense of ownership of the role of culture on an interpersonal to global scale.

To present a comprehensive cultural experience, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also prepared visits to cultural loci in Surakarta, namely Danarhadi Batik Museum and Puro Mangkunegaran for batik workshops.

This series of activities gave a special impression to the invited guests who expressed their admiration for Indonesian culture and how culture can be an effective medium for cooperation between countries and regions.

TEMPO.CO | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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