Athena, IO – Indonesia is urging Ukraine and Russia to call an immediate ceasefire and hold a peace dialogue to resolve their ongoing conflict. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto issued a statement on the ongoing conflict during his meeting with Hellenic National Defense Minister Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos in Athens, Greece, Friday (3/11/2022).
MoD Prabowo also states Indonesia’s clear stance on the issue, which is to withhold support of any violation of the Charter of the United Nations.
Minister Prabowo stated that Indonesia recognizes the right of every country to protect its sovereignty, which became the main point of consideration of Indonesia’s position over the Ukraine-Russia conflict. He added, “We sincerely hope and pray for immediate peace in the Ukraine crisis.”
In his speech, MoD Prabowo refers to the conflict as the “Ukraine crisis” or “Ukraine situation” without mentioning Russia. This was also the stance taken by the Indonesian President and Foreign Affairs Ministry in their previous official statements as well.
In his meeting with the Hellenic National Defense Minister, MoD Prabowo also discussed areas such as bilateral defense cooperation, joint education and training and defense equipment.
Prabowo was warmly welcomed with an honorary ceremony by the Hellenic National Defense Minister and the defense officials, such as Chief of Hellenic National Defense (HNDS) General Konstantinos Floros and the Hellenic Army, Navy and Air Force Chiefs of Staff.
Indonesia and Greece have maintained close cooperation in the defense industry since 2015. The Greek company Theon Sensors has partnered with Indonesia’s PT Pindad to joint-produce night vision air rifles, construct an assembly line and collaborative sales. This partnership aims for an optimal technology transfer process and advancement of domestic industrial technology. (eka)