KNews.id- The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu), has expressed an official stance regarding the war between Russia and Ukraine that is currently raging. The government views the two countries as friends, and still adheres to the principle of a free and active foreign policy.
“We have to look at the situation that is developing in Ukraine clearly. Ukraine and Russia are close friends of Indonesia. Indonesia wants to build a stronger friendship with the two countries,” said Foreign Minister Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Tuesday (1/3).
Foreign Minister Retno admitted that she had had telephone conversations with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
“The Indonesian constitution mandates that Indonesia participate in maintaining world peace. Peace cannot be realized if there is a war,” said Retno.According to him, Indonesia’s foreign policy has always been consistent.
“Up to the application of international law and the UN charter, including the issue of respecting territorial integrity and respect for sovereignty,” he said.
“This principle must be respected by all countries. This principle is upheld by Indonesia,” continued the first Indonesian female foreign minister.
Retno said that apart from emphasizing these principles, the main things that Indonesia should pay attention to are de-escalation and humanitarian issues.
“De-escalation must be carried out. Once again, this is in line with what is stated in our constitution for peace,” he explained.\
“We hope that talks between Ukraine and Russia can produce good results. In addition, saving human life is a priority. Safe passage is a major requirement and must be guaranteed.
“According to Retno, this is the principle that Indonesia has emphasized in various forums, both at the UN forum in New York and in Geneva. A few hours after Indonesia expressed its position, the Ukrainian government through its embassy in Jakarta asked for support in the war against Russia.
“The people of Indonesia, the current situation is very difficult and painful for us. Therefore, we are waiting for your support. We look forward to hearing your strong and courageous voice in our defense,” the embassy said in a statement.
“After all, if we die, then the global security system and the principles of peaceful coexistence and the principles of development, which the world has been so careful about after the tragedy of World War II, are currently trying to wrest from Russia and [President Vladimir] Putin. ours and yours, too, will surely fall,” the embassy continued.
“Heroes now see us the same way we did in the past—in the 1940s. We have no right to remain silent. If this continues, then we will have no tomorrow. Indonesian people, please support us. Freedom or death!” (AHM)
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