Indonesia’s move to join Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ stirs debate on foreign policy shift
Critics say the decision runs contrary to Jakarta’s support for Palestine and decades-old foreign policy strategy of multilateralism
Some observers, however, argue that the move is “consistent” with Indonesia’s proactive foreign policy stance and allows it access to major powers.
“Indonesia’s presence is certainly a form of international recognition of Indonesian diplomacy, position and views on world peace in general and peace in the region in particular,” Foreign Minister Sugiono said in a video statement released on Friday.
The president had “carefully considered various strategic aspects” before he decided to join the board, according to Sugiono.
“Palestinian independence and recognition of Palestinian sovereignty are things we have been striving for. The Board of Peace is one concrete alternative we can currently rely on to achieve these goals,” he said. “We will ensure that the efforts carried out by the Board of Peace remain focused on Palestinian independence and the achievement of a two-state solution.”