Foreign Minister Sugiono Meets Palestinian Minister, Discusses Commitment to Supporting Independence
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono conveyed Indonesia’s solidarity and commitment to supporting the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence to Palestinian Minister of Social Development Samah Hamad.
Sugiono delivered the commitment during a bilateral meeting with Minister Hamad on the sidelines of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Post-Ministerial Conferences and Related Meetings (AMM-PMC) in Manila, the Philippines.
“This support is demonstrated not only through consistent political and diplomatic backing, but also in various forms of humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people,” said Foreign Minister Sugiono, as quoted from a press statement confirmed in Jakarta on Saturday.
Sugiono further stated that Indonesia’s support for Palestine extends beyond humanitarian aid, and is complemented by assistance in strengthening the capacity of the Palestinian Authority as well as the reconstruction of Gaza.
“This is a manifestation of Indonesia’s genuine commitment as a partner of Palestine,” he continued.
During the meeting, Minister Hamad briefed on the severe challenges currently being faced by the Palestinian people and conveyed sincere appreciation for the solidarity and humanitarian support extended by the Indonesian people and government.
The Palestinian Minister of Social Development also expressed appreciation for humanitarian assistance initiated by civil society and the private sector in Indonesia.
She expressed hope that such assistance would always be coordinated with the Palestinian Authority, so that its distribution could be better targeted and provide optimal benefit to Palestinian communities.
Hamad further appreciated Indonesia’s continued support and expressed hope that Indonesia can continue to play a strategic role in supporting Palestine in various international forums, including pushing 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 as a result of Israeli attacks across various areas of the Gaza Strip since the ceasefire took effect.
The Palestinian Authority also stated that the death toll since the conflict reignited on 7 October 2023 has surpassed 73,000, while more than 173,000 others have been wounded.