Foreign Minister Sugiono Meets Palestinian Minister, Discusses Commitment to Supporting Independence

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has conveyed Indonesia’s commitment to solidarity and support for the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence to Palestinian Minister of Social Development Samah Hamad. The commitment was expressed during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Post-Ministerial Conferences and Related Meetings in Manila, Philippines. “This support is manifested not only through consistent political and diplomatic backing but also through various forms of humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people,” Minister Sugiono stated, as quoted from a press statement confirmed in Jakarta on Saturday. Minister Sugiono also conveyed that Indonesia’s support for Palestine extends beyond humanitarian aid, encompassing support for capacity building for the Palestinian Authority and the reconstruction of Gaza. “This is a tangible commitment of support from Indonesia as a partner to Palestine,” he added. On the occasion, Minister Hamad shared updates on the severe challenges currently faced by the Palestinian people and expressed sincere appreciation for the solidarity and humanitarian assistance provided by the people and Government of Indonesia. The Palestinian Minister of Social Development also expressed appreciation for humanitarian aid initiated by civil society and the private sector. He expressed hope that assistance would always be coordinated with the Palestinian Authority to ensure its distribution is more targeted and provides optimal benefits for the Palestinian community. Hamad further appreciated Indonesia’s longstanding support and expressed hope that Indonesia would continue to play a strategic role in supporting Palestine in various international forums, including advocating for the opening of access for humanitarian aid that remains blocked. According to the Palestinian Authority, more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed and around 3,200 others injured due to Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip since the ceasefire was implemented. The Palestinian Authority also stated that the death toll since the conflict escalated again on 7 October 2023 has surpassed 73,000 people, while more than 173,000 others have been injured.