Gastrodiplomacy Enriches Meeting between President Prabowo, South African President Ramaphosa

President Prabowo Subianto has a working lunch with President of the Republic of South Africa Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa and their respective delegations at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Wednesday (10/22). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo Subianto, Wednesday (10/22), had a bilateral meeting in a format of working lunch with President of the Republic of South Africa Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa in a warm and auspicious atmosphere at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta. On the long dining table, an array of dishes combining traditional Indonesian flavors with modern touches, was served. The dishes reflected the philosophy of friendship between the two culturally rich nations.

Following the meeting, President Ramaphosa and his delegation were served Kofiu-Kofiu for appetizer, a creative adaptation of North Sulawesi’s coastal cuisine. The dish paired grilled mackerel and snapper with fresh vegetables such as basil, cucumber, carrot, long beans, and cabbage.

The next dish was Soto Banjar, a traditional dish from South Kalimantan known for its smooth texture and rich spices. The hearty soup symbolized Indonesia’s sincere welcome to its guests from South Africa.

The main dish, Charcoal-Grilled Gindara “Mangut”, drew particular attention. The dish featured grilled black cod paired with aromatic basil rice, young jackfruit rendang, quail eggs, and spicy fried eggplant balado. It offered a rich exploration of Indonesian flavors which are savory, spicy, and fragrant with local spices.

For dessert, the delegates enjoyed “Coffee & Chocolate”, a delightful creation combining Aceh Gayo coffee and premium chocolate in a soft cake layered with hazelnut mousse, passion fruit, and chilled diplomat cream, served with fresh fruit chunks. The combination delivered a balanced flavor, symbolizing the warmth and strength of the two nations’ relationship.

More than just a meal, the working lunch represented a meaningful act of Indonesian culinary diplomacy. Each dish was designed to tell a story of the country’s fertile nature, deep-rooted traditions, and ever-evolving innovation.
The working lunch was also accompanied by live performances rendered by Ismy and Putu as vocalists and Deo Band who presented a captivating musical arrangement featuring both Indonesian regional songs and South African tunes.

On that occasion, President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the memorable luncheon.

“We are thankful for the constructive discussions we held today during lunch. I must say that the lunch made our talks much easier. Our discussion was accompanied by beautiful music performed by musicians who could even sing South African songs. All of that created the best atmosphere for us to conduct official talks. We truly appreciate the constructive dialogue we had,” President Ramaphosa said during the joint press statement after the meeting reflecting his deep impression left by the blend of diplomacy, music, and cuisine that created a warm and friendly atmosphere between the two countries.

(BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RAS/TM)