Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman (MBS) in Jeddah on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, discussing measures to expand Indonesia-Saudi bilateral relations and global issues, including the situation in Palestine.
“Saudi Arabia is a major partner for Indonesia in dialogue and resolution of regional and global issues,” Prabowo said.
“I have witnessed His Majesty’s firmness in affirming Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the region and beyond, including in promoting peace and stability for our brothers and sisters in Palestine. The Palestinian issue is very close to our hearts,” he added.
Prabowo also mentioned about Indonesia’s support for Palestine and the pursuit of united and concrete action to encourage an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the same message which he delivered during the just concluded conference, Call for Action for Gaza Summit, held in Amman, Jordan a few days ago.
During the ummit, Indonesia also encouraged Israel’s compliance with the International Court of Justice order, Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations (UN), and supported humanitarian work on the ground, including the United Nations Relief and Work Agency (UNRWA) as the main service provider for Palestinian refugees.
In the meeting with MBS, Prabowo appreciated the strong trade relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia that despite lingering global uncertainties, bilateral trade between the two countries maintains a positive trend.
Prabowo also encouraged the two countries to continue working together to increase trade by exploring new opportunities, including expanding the potential for trade in defense industry products, agricultural technology, halal industry, and creative industry.
MBS on the occasion appreciated the close relationship between the two countries, where Indonesia is considered a second home for Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the need to increase economic and investment cooperation with Indonesia.
MBS also highlighted the Palestinian issue, citing that the largely anticipated ceasefire still has conditions that have not been met.
