The strong friendship between Indonesia and Mozambique was vividly displayed as President Joko Widodo graced an invitation from Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi to attend the opening ceremony of the 2023 National Festival of Culture, also known as the Festival Budaya Nasional, held at the Black Bulls Association Field in Maputo, Mozambique, on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.

Arriving at approximately 08:45 local time (WS) or 13:45 WIB, President Jokowi, clad in a long-sleeved batik attire, was warmly welcomed by President Filipe Nyusi. The two leaders then walked together towards the honorary stage, both sporting traditional African head wraps in a synchronized show of unity.

Upon reaching the honorary stage, the national anthems of both countries were sung, followed by the commencement of the cultural parade. Representatives from Mozambique's 11 provinces took turns parading in their respective traditional attire before the two heads of state.

Following the parade, the event continued with a colossal dance performance followed by individual province-specific dance displays. The leaders were seen relishing each artistic presentation at the annual Mozambican cultural event.

The festival, organized by the Mozambican Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is an annual artistic event featuring around 1,500 artists from across Mozambique. This gathering showcases diverse forms of art, including handicrafts, music, films, dance, photography, gastronomy, and more.

Subsequently, President Jokowi's itinerary included a visit to the Presidential Office of Mozambique in Maputo, where he engaged in a bilateral meeting with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi. The meeting aimed to discuss various bilateral cooperation efforts spanning multiple domains.

President Jokowi was accompanied by key officials including Maritime and Investment Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, and Indonesian Ambassador to Mozambique and Malawi Herry Sudrajat.

Representatives from Mozambique included Minister of Culture and Tourism Eldevina Maturula, Secretary of State Judite Musaculla, and Governor of Maputo Province Julio Parruque. This diplomatic event underscores the enduring ties between the two nations and emphasizes the significance of cultural exchange in fostering international relationships.