He made the statement following a meeting with Serbian Ambassador Ivana Golubović-Duboka in Jakarta.
Fadli noted that under President Prabowo Subianto, the Ministry of Culture now operates as an independent institution, allowing greater flexibility in pursuing international cultural partnerships.
“With the ministry now standing on its own, we can move more freely in areas such as signing memorandums of understanding, developing artist residencies, and launching joint film projects,” Fadli said in a statement on Thursday.
Indonesia and Serbia have maintained diplomatic ties since the era of President Sukarno. Fadli emphasized that this historic relationship should be further strengthened under the current administration.
“Serbia and Indonesia have shared close relations since Sukarno’s time. It’s important that we continue this legacy, especially through cultural diplomacy,” he added.
Fadli also expressed hopes for increased people-to-people exchanges and creative sector initiatives between the two nations.
Ambassador Golubović-Duboka welcomed the opportunity for enhanced cultural cooperation, saying the meeting marked a step forward in strengthening bilateral ties through cultural exchange and digital innovation.
She expressed her government’s hope to promote cultural development by leveraging technology and joint programs.
The meeting also served as part of preparations for the 71st anniversary of Indonesia–Serbia diplomatic relations, which will be commemorated in November.
Deputy Ambassador Marija Bošković also attended the talks, held at the National Museum of Indonesia.
Fadli thanked Serbia for participating in the CHANDI 2025 cultural forum held in Bali in September.
Serbia’s delegation supported the Bali Cultural Initiative Declaration, which underscored both countries’ commitment to international cultural cooperation.
Ambassador Golubović-Duboka presented her credentials to President Prabowo on May 6, 2025.
Shortly afterward, during a courtesy call with Foreign Minister Sugiono, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing collaboration in trade, investment, and cultural exchange to improve the welfare of their citizens.
According to a statement from the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, Golubović-Duboka conveyed Serbia’s readiness to expand cooperation across multiple sectors during her meeting with Sugiono.
Sugiono welcomed her appointment and highlighted the deep-rooted bilateral relationship, shaped by shared history and cooperation through platforms such as the Non-Aligned Movement and ASEAN.
Both officials expressed appreciation for the longstanding political ties and agreed to advance collaboration, particularly in economic and cultural areas.
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Translator: Sinta A, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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