VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

 Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, at the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) Open Debate on the situation in the Middle East, reiterated Palestine`s natural and legal rights to become a full member of the UN.

"I am here today to signify Indonesia`s full support for the Palestinian struggle for independence," Marsudi stated while addressing the UNSC members, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received here on Wednesday, Jan 23.

On the occasion, Marsudi said that the path to independence might be challenging and bumpy, but it will neither lessen the Palestinian efforts nor the support of the international societies. Within this context, Minister Marsudi emphasized that the Palestinian issue must receive full attention of the UNSC.

"The credibility and trust of the international community towards this council will depend on how well we solve this particular debate," she remarked.

The Indonesian FM highlighted points that needed attention while encouraging the peace process between Palestine and Israel.

Firstly, Minister Marsudi reiterated that every party involved needs to follow international laws and related UN resolutions and also exercise some self-restraint to prevent tensions from flaring up.

"Every violent action and deed that violates the international law must be stopped immediately, including the process of building illegal settlements by the Israelis. It is morally and legally wrong, and it needs to stop," she stated.

Secondly, Marsudi also stressed that the peace process between Palestine and Israel is legitimate. Hence, it is paramount that the peace process follows the international parameter and is supported by a multilateral mechanism. The minister expressed regret over the fact that efforts were being made to push the peace process out of the Two-State solution corridor.

"Indonesia affirms that the Two-State Solution is the only way to push the peace process between Palestine and Israel forward," she pointed out.

Thirdly, the Indonesian government expressed deep concern over the plight and humanitarian crisis in Palestine, especially in Gaza. Hence, Minister Marsudi stated that 11 years of blockade by Israel must simply stop. Furthermore, the Indonesian government lauded the UN member states that have supported the United Nations Relief and Works Agency`s (UNRWA`s) efforts to solve the agency`s financial plight that had disrupted the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

"Indonesia has increased its contribution to UNRWA, and we will always increase our help and contribution for Palestine," FM Marsudi remarked.

Apart from the Palestinian issue, the UNSC Open Debate also discussed the conflict in Suriah and Yemen. FM Marsudi stressed on the importance of a peaceful and inclusive political solution.

"It is essential that the UN dons more roles to facilitate the national reconciliation efforts in both countries," Marsudi noted. (ant)