The Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of Indonesia's House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards deepening bilateral relations with Cuba, a move that holds immense potential for promoting international cooperation and peace.
In August 2025, the BKSAP delegation led by Chairman Dr. Mardani Ali Sera visited Havana, Cuba, as part of Indonesia's parliamentary diplomacy efforts. The visit was marked by cordiality and symbolic significance, bringing together the Indonesian delegation with key members of the Cuban parliament.
A Concrete Step towards Friendship
This visit is a concrete step towards deepening the friendship between the Indonesian and Cuban parliaments, a notion emphasized by Dr. Mardani Ali Sera: “This visit is a concrete step to deepen the friendship between the Indonesian and Cuban parliaments. We greatly appreciate the warm welcome extended to us despite the Cuban Parliament currently being in recess." Indonesia remains committed to promoting international cooperation that is fair and inclusive, centered on the well-being of the people and shared development.
Strengthening Cooperation in Education, Health, and Technology
During their meeting, both parties discussed a number of strategic topics, including strengthening cooperation in the fields of education, health, and technology. This focus area underscores Indonesia’s commitment to promoting international cooperation that is fair and inclusive, centered on the well-being of the people and shared development.
Enhancing Bilateral Trade and Investment Relations
The BKSAP DPR RI delegation also discussed enhancing bilateral trade and investment relations, particularly in the energy and tourism sectors. The dialogue emphasized the importance of strengthening ASEAN-Cuba solidarity amid global political and economic challenges.
Mutual Support in International Forums
Both parties agreed to mutual support in international forums to promote inclusion and global cooperation, in line with the principles of justice and peace. This pledge underscores Indonesia’s commitment to pursuing diplomacy that is inclusive, fair, and brings tangible benefits to the people, both in Indonesia and in Cuba.
Expert opinions highlight the significance of this visit: “This partnership will bring tangible benefits to both nations,” said Dr. Mardani Ali Sera. Meanwhile, Dewi Coryati noted that Cuban women hold 56 percent of the 470 seats in the Cuban Parliament—an inspiring achievement. Eva Monalisa also highlighted Cuba’s strengths in tourism and music.
A New Era of Parliamentary Diplomacy
The Havana visit served as tangible evidence of BKSAP DPR RI’s commitment to enhancing synergy between parliament and government to broaden international cooperation networks. The DPR RI delegation expressed confidence that the outcomes of the dialogue would be further advanced through enhanced institutional communication, exchange programs, and concrete projects in the agreed areas of cooperation.
In conclusion, this visit reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to expanding parliamentary diplomacy and bilateral cooperation across strategic sectors. The BKSAP DPR RI delegation looks forward to strengthening these relations further through legislator exchange programs, joint seminars, and collaborative development projects.
Outlook and Call to Action
The outcomes of this visit will likely shape the future of Indonesian-Cuban relations. Will Indonesia's commitment to promoting international cooperation pay dividends for both nations? The world watches with bated breath as these two parliaments embark on a new era of friendship and cooperation.