Namibia and Indonesia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cultural diplomacy and strengthening the bond between their people.

The commitment was made during the musical and cultural festival held in Windhoek under the theme "Unity in Diversity: Cultural Harmony of Indonesia and Namibia".

Indonesia's Ambassador to Namibia, Mirza Nurhidayat, highlighted the long-standing relationship between Namibia and Indonesia, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic relations 34 years ago.

"We bring the spirit of 'Pineka Tungalika' to celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity and the strength of friendship between Namibia and Indonesia. Since the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 1991, the cooperation between our two nations has continued to grow in various fields, from trade and agriculture to education and culture. Yet, among all this, it is people-to-people connections that form the strongest foundation of our friendship."

The festival also commemorates the 70th anniversary of the historic Asian-African Conference, held in Bandung, a landmark gathering built on the principles of peace, solidarity, and mutual respect. 

The Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Dino Ballotti, commended the organisers for showcasing the power of artistic exchange and strengthening bilateral cultural cooperation.

"Through music, dance, and artistic storytelling, tonight's partnership grows even stronger, enriching not only our diplomatic relationships but also the experiences of our youth, who benefit from learning about our cultures while celebrating their own."

Vice President Lucia Witbooi commended the Embassy of Indonesia for organising a platform that celebrates shared values of harmony, resilience, and cultural identity.

"As we celebrate our cultural diversity through music and dance, let us be reminded of the spirit of the Asian-African Conference, which entails that our solidarity is not only found in politics or diplomacy but also in culture – in our music, in the colours of our fabric, and in the stories we pass from one generation to another."

The festival featured performances from Namibian and Indonesian cultural groups such as the Gibeon Brass Band, Angklung Performance, Tari Piring, Incling Janget and Yapong Dances.

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Photo Credits
Nampa

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TANIA KATAMILA