“Indonesia and Timor-Leste share the same roots. Our countries are close not only geographically but also through shared history, traditions, cultures, and languages. With this in mind, I hope we can enhance cooperation in cultural affairs,” he said.
The minister made the remarks during an official visit to Timor-Leste on Monday (October 6), where he was received by President of the National Parliament Maria Fernanda Lay, according to a statement cited in Jakarta on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Zon emphasized the potential for both countries to explore new avenues of collaboration, including joint promotion of local arts, culture, and traditions, as well as the development of culture-based creative industries.
He expressed confidence that such initiatives would encourage innovation, stimulate economic growth, and promote the preservation of shared cultural heritage.
In addition to advocating closer cultural cooperation, Zon shared his experience as Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) from 2019 to 2024, during which he helped foster closer ties with Timor-Leste’s parliament.
He also commended National Parliament Speaker Maria Fernanda Lay for her leadership and contributions to strengthening relations between the two countries’ legislatures.
“I appreciate the strong bond built between Timor-Leste and Indonesia in various fields under the leadership of Her Excellency Maria Fernanda Lay, the first woman to chair Timor-Leste’s National Parliament,” Zon said.
Accompanying the minister at the bilateral meeting were Indonesian Ambassador to Timor-Leste Okto Dorinus Manik and Education Attaché at the Indonesian Embassy in Dili, Tasrifin Tahara.
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Translator: Livia K, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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