Cultural and Tourism Diplomacy in the Spotlight at PUIC 2025, Indonesia and Tunisia Prepare Parliamentary Visit
The 19th Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC), held in Jakarta, served as an important moment to strengthen inter-parliamentary diplomacy, including between Indonesia and Tunisia.
Deputy Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the DPR RI, Husein Fadlulloh, stated that both countries are committed to enhancing cooperation, particularly through cultural and tourism channels.
“We’ve already discussed ideas for cultural diplomacy through digital means—cultural digitalization—since geographical distance can be a real challenge,” said Husein after meeting with the Tunisian parliamentary delegation.
Husein stressed the importance of fostering mutual understanding between the peoples of both nations through cultural exchange programs facilitated by their respective embassies. He also proposed tourist exchange initiatives to further strengthen bilateral ties.
“If we have student exchange programs, why not tourist exchanges? Maybe we could provide opportunities for Tunisians to visit Indonesia at no cost, and likewise partially cover expenses for Indonesians traveling to Tunisia,” he explained.
The Gerindra Party politician added that BKSAP, together with the Indonesia–Tunisia Parliamentary Friendship Group (GKSB), is currently preparing for a reciprocal visit to Tunisia later this year.
“We also held a meeting earlier today with the Chair of the GKSB for Tunisia. They have already planned a visit,” he added.
Meanwhile, BKSAP Chair Mardani Ali Sera, who was also present at the PUIC forum, addressed pressing global issues such as Palestine and other ongoing conflicts.
“Three main issues on Palestine were discussed, along with ten resolutions concerning minorities. Each topic was thoroughly deliberated, and diplomatic actions were formulated,” he stated.
According to Mardani, the spirit of humanity and solidarity was strongly felt throughout the forum. “The spirit of humanity and solidarity was clearly evident among all representatives in attendance,” he said.
For context, the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC) is a cooperative forum among the parliaments of OIC member countries.
Established in 1999, the PUIC aims to strengthen political, economic, and social solidarity among its members. The 19th PUIC conference reaffirmed the role of parliamentary diplomacy in voicing humanitarian concerns and enhancing cross-border collaboration—such as the bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Tunisia.
