Indonesian Foreign Minister: Ease Tensions, Have Dialogue
There are so many questions, which side are we supporting? Indonesia does not side with anyone.
Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi
Respect for international law and the United Nations Charter is the main basis for bringing about peace. Indonesia has consistently enforced this principle to respond to global challenges.
JAKARTA, KOMPAS — The war that resulted from Russia’s attack on Ukraine has not shown any signs of abating. The fighting is still fierce. In the midst of the situation, Indonesia has again called for steps that prioritize humanitarian principles.
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While monitoring the evacuation process of Indonesian citizens, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi, on Thursday (3/3/2022), spent time answering several questions from Kompas regarding Indonesia's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The following are excerpts from the interview.
In response to the Russia-Ukraine war, there is a demand that Indonesia be more assertive, but there are also different opinions. What is Indonesia's position?
There are so many questions, which side are we supporting? Indonesia does not side with anyone. Our side is always of the national interest, the mandate of the Constitution and the principles of international law, including the United Nations Charter, as well as respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of a territory. This message is conveyed to all parties.
That is the principle that underlies Indonesia's position. That's what we continue to respect and consistently uphold.
In every statement issued by Indonesia, the statement is always preceded with a sentence that the principles of international law, including the United Nations Charter, must continue to be respected by all countries. That is the principle that underlies Indonesia's position. That's what we continue to respect and consistently uphold.
If we go into detail, the mandate of the Constitution is to maintain world peace, which means that there should be no war. Therefore, our call is for the war to be stopped, a peaceful settlement should be sought and tensions should be eased.
In addition, Indonesia also keeps calling for the importance of continuing dialogue and paying attention to humans by ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid without obstacles and safe passage.
Is Indonesia's position and attitude regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict also reflected in similar cases elsewhere?
It can be checked everywhere, this position is what we consistently uphold and enforce. Indonesia believes these principles are adhered to by every country, including respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as humanitarian principles.
A Ukrainian serviceman carries an NLAW anti-tank weapon during an exercise in the Joint Forces Operation, in the Donetsk region, eastern Ukraine, Feb. 15, 2022. As the U.S. and other NATO members warn of the potential for a devastating war, Russia is not countering with bombs or olive branches -- but with sarcasm.
This is not the first time we have dealt with a difficult situation like this. My predecessors were also often faced with difficult situations like this.
We are always consistent with that principle. It's not about supporting whichever side but rather enforcing principles that are in accordance with the constitutional mandate, enforcement of international law and promoting humanitarian diplomacy. Partner countries understand Indonesia's consistency.
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On many occasions, this principle has been consistently conveyed. Our track record of humanitarian diplomacy is high.
Now, back to the current situation, the principle has been reaffirmed, our statement is clear: military action is unacceptable, we want the war to stop. Once again, we call for an easing of tensions, for negotiations to continue, access to humanitarian aid and guarantee of safe passage. This is important to fulfil in order to provide protection to about 1 million people who want to leave Ukraine.
So refugees, whatever their background, must be treated equally.
Regarding refugees, in my talks with the foreign ministers of European countries, discrimination against refugees cannot be justified. So refugees, whatever their background, must be treated equally.
Indonesia emphasizes that the easing of tensions, a peaceful settlement and the humanitarian aspect go hand in hand, and that is what we highlight.
ASEAN
Furthermore, in the conversation, Retno said ASEAN was discussing a statement to be made regarding the Russia-Ukraine issue. One of ASEAN's main concerns was to call for a ceasefire. The call, according to Retno, was in line with Indonesia's call.
Indonesia's consistency in upholding these principles also aligns with the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly. According to Retno, the elements that are of concern to Indonesia are accommodated in the resolution, including the call for all parties to ease tensions, protect safe passage, provide access to humanitarian assistance and respect human rights.
Delegates clap at the UN General Assembly Emergency session in New York on March 2, 2022, after a resolution condemning Russian invasion of Ukraine passed.
"So it is these elements that are expected to help improve the situation. Currently, the world is dealing with various challenges, both dealing with the pandemic and bringing economic recovery. The world's energy is urgently needed to recover from the pandemic. That recovery can be realized when the world is united, working together. Recovery will not happen if we fight each other,” said Retno.
(This article was translated by Kurniawan Siswo)
