Jakarta, Oct. 7 -- Indonesia's Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has expressed his commitment to further strengthening cultural relations between Indonesia and Timor-Leste as the two nations mark 23 years of diplomatic ties this year.

"Indonesia and Timor-Leste share the same roots. Our countries are close not only geographically but also through shared history, traditions, cultures, and languages. With this in mind, I hope we can enhance cooperation in cultural affairs," he said.

The minister made the remarks during an official visit to Timor-Leste on Monday (October 6), where he was received by President of the National Parliament Maria Fernanda Lay, according to a statement cited in Jakarta on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Zon emphasized...