GASTRODIPLOMASI INDONESIA MELALUI PROGRAM RENDANG GOES TO EUROPE DI BULGARIA

Gastrodiplomacy can be an instrument of foreign policy to expand the network of cultural contacts between countries, the use of culinary as a diplomatic tool is an effective way to mediate nonverbal communication that can connect various groups in many countries, as done by Indonesia through the Rendang Goes To Europe program in Bulgaria. This study aims to analyze the strategies carried out by Indonesia in realizing gastrodiplomacy efforts through the Rendang Goes To Europe program in Bulgaria. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques through literature studies. The results of the study show that through the Rendang Goes To Europe program, Indonesia is not only able to promote rendang as part of its cultural identity, but also tries to strengthen bilateral relations with Bulgaria through culinary channels. The strategies used are promotion through social media, food events, and cooperation between the Indonesian Embassy in Sofia and stakeholders, this is in line with the concept of gastrodiplomacy according to Paul Rockower which emphasizes the importance of using food as a diplomatic tool to create a positive image of the country and strengthen relations with the international public.