Russia respects Indonesia's stance on Gaza Peace Board, but declines to join

Russia’s Ambassador to the Federation for Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, has stated that Moscow respects Indonesia’s decision to join the Gaza Peace Board, or Board of Peace (BoP).

“We respect Indonesia’s sovereign decision and understand the reasoning behind President Prabowo Subianto’s decision. We understand that Indonesia wishes to protect Palestine,” Tolchenov said during a press conference at his residence in Jakarta on Thursday evening, 26 February.

He noted that President Prabowo Subianto and Foreign Minister Sugiono have consistently supported a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“Indonesia still desires what is called a two-state solution in Gaza, in Palestine, in the Middle East,” he said.

However, Tolchenov emphasised that Russia is not participating in the Gaza Board. Moscow also did not vote in favour of UN Security Council Resolution 2803, which served as the basis for establishing the Board.

He explained that Russia has not joined because the Gaza Board does not explicitly mention a two-state solution or recognition of a Palestinian state.

“In the Gaza Board, there is nothing mentioned about a two-state solution, the establishment of a Palestinian state, or recognition of Palestine,” he said.

Additionally, he highlighted the absence of Palestinian representation within the Board’s structure.

“In the Gaza Board, there are no Palestinians. Israel, yes. Palestine, no. So, how can we do this?” he said.

Nevertheless, Russia continues to respect the decision of countries that choose to participate in the Board.

“We respect the decisions of countries that are in the BoP, and we will see what they will do there,” he said.

Meanwhile, in front of United States President Donald Trump and other delegations at the Board of Peace’s inaugural meeting, President Prabowo affirmed that Indonesia’s participation reflects the country’s consistent and active stance in supporting world peace and promoting a fair solution for the Palestinian people.