President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo received the Grand Collar Order of The State of Palestine, the highest honor bestowed by the Palestinian government, in recognition of Indonesia’s steadfast support for Palestine’s fight for independence.
The award was presented by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s Special Envoy, Riyad Al Maliki, during a ceremony at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday, August 19, 2024.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, who was present at the event, conveyed the deep gratitude expressed by President Abbas through his envoy.
“The Special Envoy conveyed the highest appreciation from President Mahmoud Abbas to President Joko Widodo for Indonesia’s consistent stance in supporting the Palestinian cause,” Retno said in a written statement.
In addition to presenting the award, Special Envoy Riyad Al Maliki also extended President Abbas’s greetings and congratulations to President Jokowi and the Indonesian people on the occasion of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day Commemoration.
President Abbas praised Indonesia’s crucial role in advocating for the Palestinian people, including its efforts to promote a ceasefire, provide humanitarian aid, and support the two-state solution.
“President Jokowi reiterated Indonesia’s clear position of unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s struggle. Indonesia will continue to advocate for an unimpeded ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and a two-state solution,” Retno emphasized.
During the meeting, President Jokowi reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to continue backing the Palestinian cause and its dedication to securing international recognition and full membership for Palestine at the United Nations.
“Indonesia will also persist in approaching UN member states to recognize Palestine and support its bid for full membership in the UN,” Retno added.
Special Envoy Riyad Al Maliki underscored that this honor was conferred in recognition of President Jokowi’s efforts to strengthen ties between Indonesia and Palestine and his steadfast support for Palestinian people’s pursuit of freedom and independence.
The award ceremony was attended by several high-ranking Indonesian officials, including Minister of State Secretary Pratikno and Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung. Accompanying Special Envoy Riyad Al Maliki was the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Zuhair al-Shun.
