Indonesian Vice President Welcomes Chinese Leader, Showcases Culinary Delights

Jakarta, Indonesia – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka hosted a lunch for visiting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng at the Vice Presidential Palace on Monday, October 21, 2024. The luncheon served as a warm gesture of welcome following Han Zheng’s attendance at the inauguration ceremony of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran the previous day.

Warm Welcome and Diplomatic Discussions

Prior to the lunch, Gibran and Han Zheng engaged in a cordial conversation at the reception room. During their meeting, Han Zheng extended his congratulations on the inauguration of Prabowo and Gibran.

“It is clear that President Prabowo’s government will be committed to continuing the progress achieved. Thank you for your support, including in the development of high-speed railways (Whoosh),” Gibran remarked

Han Zheng reciprocated positively, expressing confidence in the solid foundation of the China-Indonesia partnership. “We are also confident that the new Indonesian government will uphold the tradition of friendship between our two countries,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the robust relationship between China and Indonesia would not only benefit both nations but also contribute positively to regional and international prosperity. “Thank you, Your Excellency. Let us continue to strengthen this friendship,” Gibran concluded the meeting.

Gastrodiplomacy in Action

A key highlight of the meeting was Gibran’s presentation of Indonesian culinary delights to Han Zheng. He showcased a selection of Indonesian specialties, including jackfruit with salted egg sauce (sukun telur asin), grilled fish cake (otak-otak), Balinese crab salad (lemburi jeruk Bali), spiced grilled chicken (ayam bakar sempyok), grilled grouper from Manokwari, and torch ginger fried rice (kecombrang nasi goreng).

This curated culinary experience was a strategic move, as Indonesia increasingly leverages ‘gastrodiplomacy’ to build bridges and strengthen diplomatic relations. Han Zheng praised the rich spices and flavors of the Indonesian dishes.

Strengthening Ties: A Look Ahead

2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and China, solidifying the importance of their enduring partnership. Gibran and Han Zheng both emphasized the need for enhanced economic cooperation and investment in human resource development. Han Zheng also conveyed that Chinese President Xi Jinping closely follows developments in Indonesia and anticipates further collaboration in the future.

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