Foreign Minister: Negotiations for Indonesian Ships Become More Complex Due to Iran's Internal Situation

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that negotiations are ongoing regarding two Pertamina ships detained in the Strait of Hormuz, with the situation becoming complex due to the internal domestic circumstances in Iran.

In a press conference at the Presidential Staff Office (KSP) in Jakarta on Wednesday, Sugiono conveyed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran, continues discussions to release the two Pertamina ships carrying two million barrels of crude oil.

“The problem is becoming increasingly complex due to the internal situation occurring in Iran itself. Sometimes, policies from the top are not immediately implemented on the ground. We are seeking how to resolve that,” the Foreign Minister said.

In addition, there are developments regarding the requirements to cross the Strait of Hormuz that are still being negotiated, as well as a meeting initiated by Britain and France with more than 20 countries this week to develop a coordinated strategy to reopen the highly vital Strait of Hormuz for shipping.

“So, representing the President, I attended that meeting virtually. The main points were, first, that the countries participating in the conference reject all kinds of fees or tolls for ships passing through Hormuz. Because that contradicts what is known as freedom of navigation,” he said.

On the other hand, participating countries also support various diplomatic efforts and political negotiations to resolve tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

There are also plans to place protection for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law or through a UN mandate.

“But, of course, this is still under further discussion,” Sugiono added.