NEW YORK — Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono declared at the UN General Assembly on Sept. 26 that Palestine remains a test of conscience for the international community, calling for respect for national sovereignty and an end to colonialism in occupied Palestinian territories.
Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia's support for a sovereign Palestinian state under the two-state solution, a long-standing position for Jakarta. He characterized the situation in Gaza and the West Bank as a clear violation of international law, drawing a comparison to the period before 1945, when the UN Charter, Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Geneva Conventions were established.
Indonesia will support the Palestinian people until their right to self-determination is realized through an independent, sovereign state, Sugiono said. He noted his nation's own experience with colonialism and its understanding of international law's importance.
Sugiono stressed that Palestine transcends regional concerns and serves as a test of whether the multilateral system can uphold its foundational principles. While Indonesia continues to believe in the United Nations, the institution must adapt to the evolving global landscape, he said.
During Indonesia's national address, Sugiono formally announced the country's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029-2030 term. If elected, Indonesia pledges to foster unity among member states and advance global peace.