INDONESIA REAFFIRMS READINESS TO ACT AS “HONEST BROKER” TO WEST ASIA TENSIONS

JAKARTA, March 11 (Bernama) -- Indonesia has reaffirmed its readiness to act as an “honest broker” to facilitate dialogue amid escalating tensions in West Asia during a recent meeting with ambassadors from Gulf countries and Jordan. 

According to Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, Foreign Minister Sugiono on Monday (March 9) met with ambassadors of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Jordan, as well as representatives from the embassies of the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar.

During the meeting, which was initiated by Bahrain—the current president of the Gulf Cooperation Council—Sugiono expressed deep concern over the rising tensions in West Asia, warning that the situation could increase security uncertainty not only in the region but also globally.

“Indonesia encourages all parties to exercise restraint and prioritise dialogue and diplomacy as the only sustainable path to achieve de-escalation and long-term stability,” he was quoted as saying in a statement issued by ministry, on Wednesday.

During the discussion, the ministry said, the ambassadors and diplomatic representatives briefed Sugiono on developments in the security situation in their respective countries and shared the views of GCC states on the evolving regional dynamics.

They also expressed appreciation for the initiative of Indonesia’s president and foreign minister in conducting telephone communications with leaders and foreign ministers of GCC countries and Jordan.

The ministry said Indonesia expressed its readiness to contribute constructively to peace efforts in the region.

“We are ready to contribute constructively to peace efforts, including as an honest broker to facilitate dialogue if agreed by the relevant parties,” the minister said.

The minister also highlighted concerns over the safety of Indonesian nationals in the region, noting that about 495,000 Indonesians currently reside in GCC countries and Jordan.

Sugiono also expressed hope that host governments would continue supporting efforts to ensure the protection of Indonesian citizens.

On Feb 28, when Iran was attacked by the United States and Israel, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry said President Prabowo Subianto was prepared to travel to Tehran to help facilitate dialogue, should both Iran and the US agree.

-- BERNAMA