Indonesia Abstains on Ukraine Vote at UN, Emphasises Importance of Inclusive Negotiation
Jakarta – The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) has emphasised the importance of dialogue and inclusive negotiation in the process of drafting resolutions and decision-making within the United Nations (UN), particularly regarding the resolution of conflicts between nations.
This was stated by Indonesian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang in response to questions from ANTARA regarding Indonesia’s decision to abstain from voting on a UN General Assembly resolution on Tuesday, 24 February, concerning the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.
“Regarding inclusivity and constructive negotiation, regrettably, according to Indonesia’s position, this was not demonstrated in the adoption process of the draft resolution, where there was no negotiation space whatsoever opened for the proposed concepts. Therefore, Indonesia abstained,” said Yvonne during a media briefing in Jakarta on Friday.
Yvonne highlighted the significant number of countries that abstained, approximately 50 nations, many of which are developing countries such as India, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, reflecting similar concerns to Indonesia regarding the lack of inclusive dialogue.
The United States also decided to abstain from the resolution, whilst Russia was among 12 countries that rejected the resolution’s adoption.
On the same occasion, Deputy Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela echoed that Indonesia on principle emphasises the importance of inclusivity in the process of discussing resolutions at the UN.
“Indonesia is in a position to ensure inclusive dialogue, particularly within the scope of the UN,” said Nabyl, whilst reminding that inclusivity is one of the matters continuously promoted in efforts to reform UN institutions supported by Indonesia.
He stated that the large number of countries abstaining in the resolution’s decision-making is a signal and reminder of the importance of inclusive dialogue and negotiation processes at the UN.
As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fourth year, the UN General Assembly on Tuesday adopted a resolution urging comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace in Ukraine. The resolution was approved with the support of 107 countries.
The resolution, proposed by Ukraine and supported by 46 countries, highlighted the impact of the war on regional and global dynamics and expressed “deep concern” over Russian attacks on “civilians, civilian objects, and critical energy infrastructure” that have exacerbated the humanitarian situation.
In addition to reaffirming support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the resolution also called for an “immediate, complete, and unconditional ceasefire”.