PIKI: Active Foreign Policy Constitutes Indonesia's Strength Amid Global Crisis

Jakarta – The Indonesian Christian Intellectuals Association (PIKI) has stated that Indonesia’s active foreign policy constitutes the nation’s principal strength amid global crises, particularly in navigating the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Badikenita Br. Sitepu, Chairman of PIKI’s Central Board of Directors, stated that within the geopolitical context, Indonesia remains committed to its independent and active foreign policy.

Beyond the Board of Peace (BoP), Indonesia is also engaged in various international partnerships including BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

“Not only the BoP, but we are also involved in various international cooperation arrangements such as BRICS, whilst maintaining our independent position. Thus, our discussions are not limited to the United States, Afghanistan, or Saudi Arabia, but also extend to other international partnerships that constitute our collective strength,” Sitepu said during a discussion with media representatives and the Indonesian Council of Churches (PGI) in Jakarta on Thursday.

Several significant topics discussed during the congress, which bear strong relevance to global crisis issues, include Indonesia’s food security and energy security.

“The congress theme indeed encompasses food security, energy security, and human resource development. Given the current situation, Indonesia’s negotiating position is also noteworthy, for instance in trade cooperation discussions – interestingly, rice import permits have been approved for approximately one thousand tonnes,” Sitepu remarked.

Regarding energy security, PIKI has also responded to statements that Indonesia’s energy reserves are sufficient for only approximately twenty days. Consequently, the government should examine potential energy production from sources beyond coal that could be optimised.

“In fact, we also possess potential energy production from various sources, including biodiesel development. Additionally, there is also the possibility of developing nuclear energy, which will form part of PIKI’s study meeting discussions,” Sitepu said.