(Businesslounge Journal-Global News) Indonesia and the African Union marked a 70-year milestone, with the new African Union Dean to Indonesia, Ambassador Makocha, delivering an opening speech highlighting the growth of trade between Indonesia and Africa, as well as the need to further explore untapped potential. One of the nations highlighted today is the Kingdom of Morocco. With strong bilateral ties established since 1960, the Kingdom has long been a close friend of the Republic of Indonesia, a relationship further strengthened through high-level visits. Notably, President Sukarno paid an official visit to Rabat on 2 May 1960, and an avenue in Morocco was later named after him as a symbol of friendship between the two nations.
During the Africa Day celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, the Moroccan Embassy presented a cultural display showcasing the richness of Moroccan heritage, featuring traditional clothing, tea sets, perfume containers, and a wide variety of Moroccan delicacies.
Among the highlights were the elegant Moroccan caftan and takchita, both known for their intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, adorned with fine handwork, jewels, and elaborate embellishments, often worn during celebrations and special occasions. The exhibition also featured traditional attire from the northern region of Morocco (Région du Nord), known for its vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship, as well as garments inspired by the Saharan regions of the south (Région du Sud), reflecting the distinctive styles of the Riffian and Sahrawi communities and the diversity of Moroccan culture.
Some Moroccan cuisine and sweets were also on display, ranging from the savory seafood pastilla to traditional treats such as dates filled with almonds, peanut briouates, and ghriba mlaaka cookies. Guests were also introduced to the comforting flavors of chicken couscous with vegetables and tfaya — a sweet and savory caramelized onion and raisin topping that is widely enjoyed in Moroccan cuisine. Together, the dishes offered a glimpse into Morocco’s rich culinary heritage, known for its blend of spices, textures, and regional influences, The writer was particularly fond of the crispy peanut briouates, the rich and flavorful pastilla, and the hearty couscous.
The celebration not only highlighted the richness of Moroccan culture and traditions, but also reflected the warm and longstanding friendship between Morocco and Indonesia that has continued to grow over the decades. Through cultural exchanges, diplomatic engagement, and growing economic cooperation, both nations have demonstrated a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Beyond the cultural showcase, the event also underscored the significant trade and investment potential between the two countries. With Indonesia and Morocco serving as strategic gateways to Southeast Asia and Africa respectively, there remain broad opportunities for more cooperation and trade. As relations continue to deepen, the Kingdom and the Republic have the opportunity to expand cooperation across various sectors, paving the way for stronger economic ties and closer people-to-people connections between Southeast Asia and Africa. What was once separated by vast distances—across vast oceans and the expanse of the Saharan desert—now feels closer than ever, as both nations build bridges through trade, culture, and shared aspirations.