WNAM REPORT: Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and her Irish counterpart, Micheál Martin, have strengthened bilateral relations with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The MoU, which establishes the Indonesia-Ireland bilateral consultation mechanism, was signed on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 23, according to a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.
The agreement is expected to enhance the political mechanisms of both countries in discussing bilateral cooperation and international issues of shared interest.
Following the signing, the two ministers held a bilateral meeting, during which they discussed several key issues, including the situation in Palestine.
“Indonesia appreciates Ireland’s support and recognition of Palestine, and we will continue to encourage other countries to recognize Palestine and advocate for their rights,” Marsudi said.
Echoing Marsudi’s remarks, Martin reaffirmed the rights of Palestinians to live in peace and underscored the need to maintain a humanitarian approach while rejecting double standards directed at Palestine.
On May 28, Ireland, along with Norway and Spain, officially recognized the state of Palestine. Slovenia followed as the most recent European country to do so on June 4.
During the meeting, both ministers also agreed to enhance economic cooperation, which continues to show positive growth.
While diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Ireland have been in place for four decades since 1984, Marsudi expressed optimism that this momentum will further strengthen ties between the two nations.
Representatives of UN member states are currently gathered in New York for the High-Level Week of the 79th UNGA.
