SABACIREBON – Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia Fadli Zon emphasized that the “Bandung Spirit” was born from Asia-Africa Conference remains of strong relevance amidst the current global uncertainty.
In commemorating the 71st anniversary of the Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung, Fadli said that this spirit was not just a historical legacy, but a moral guideline in building a more peaceful and just world order.
According to him, culture must be placed as the main pillar in international diplomacy. Apart from its function of maintaining national identity, culture also acts as a medium for dialogue that is able to bridge differences between countries, especially in Asia and Africa.
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In the midst of increasingly open globalization, Fadli considers culture to have a strategic position – as a fortress that protects national identity as well as a means of strengthening relations between nations.
He also reminded the importance of protecting cultural heritage as part of efforts to maintain sustainable peace. According to him, global conflict should not erase the historical identity of a nation or silence cultural diversity.
Furthermore, Fadli emphasized that the principles born from the Asia-Africa Conference, including the values in the Bandung Principles, remain relevant in facing an increasingly fragmented world.
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The values of solidarity, equality and cooperation which are the foundation of the forum are considered capable of being a moral force in responding to various global challenges, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to inequality between countries.
He also encouraged strengthening cultural cooperation between Asian and African countries, both through knowledge exchange, preserving cultural heritage, and solidarity in facing common challenges.
“Differences are not to be disputed, but are a force in building a more just, peaceful and civilized world,” he said. ***
