Celebrate 75 Years Of Diplomatic Relations, Indonesia-Thailand Holds Culinary Diplomacy

The opening of the "Gastrodiplomacy Journey: Immersive Culinary Experiences of Indonesia and Thailand". (Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs RI)

Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Thailand, the two countries held culinary diplomacy activities, part of the "Indonesia Gastroplomacy Series" initiated by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The activity entitled "Gastrodiplomacy Journey: Immersive Culinary Experiences of Indonesia and Thailand" was held at the Bandung City Hall Hall Hall Hall Hall, West Java, Saturday, April 27.

The event which highlighted the important role of gastronomi as a means of diplomacy and cultural bridge was attended by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of Indonesia Prapan Disyat.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the Indonesia Gastroplomacy Series in 2023, a program designed to enhance the role of Indonesian gastronomi as a powerful diplomatic tool, which goes beyond borders and fosters unity. By celebrating the culinary traditions of Indonesia and Thailand, we not only respect the shared heritage, but also open the way for deeper collaboration and closer inter-community contact," explained the Director General of Information and Public Diplomacy of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Siti Nugraha Mauludiah at the opening.

Attended by more than 100 participants, With the number of participants exceeding 100, including representatives from the diplomatic corps, the event featured Gastroplomacy Talks and Live Cooking Sessions.

The Gastroplomacy Talks session provides valuable insights and experiences about the role of gastronomi in diplomacy, culinary heritage, and innovation. In particular, the Kumtornpol Buaatch from the Thai Trade Center in Jakarta explained Thailand's proactive culinary diplomacy initiative to introduce Thai food to the international community.

Meanwhile, the founder of Javara Indonesia, Helianti Hilman, discussed efforts to preserve local food traditions and sustainable practices.

Meanwhile, culinary historian from Padjadjaran University, Fadly Rahman, enriched the discussion with an analysis of the important role of food in shaping cultural narratives.

Adding to the lively event, the live cooking performance (live cooking) hosted by Chef Howard of Jack Howard Dining, Chef Vilailak Nilkham from Charm Thai and Chef Ilham from Altero Bistroromoe managed to catch the attention of participants.

Not to forget, traditional dishes typical of Indonesia and Thailand also enlivened the event, served by restaurants such as Calluna All Day, Sate Khas Abah, Thai Palace and Charm Thai.