RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono held a bilateral meeting with Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Aghabekian Shahin on the sidelines of the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, Monday, 23 February 2026. The meeting served as a strategic opportunity to exchange views on the Palestinian peace process and to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

During the talks, Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He stated that Indonesia stands ready to play a more substantive role in advancing a just and lasting peace, including through initiatives such as the Board of Peace and the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF).

The Indonesian minister also welcomed the establishment of a Liaison Office by the Palestinian Authority to enhance coordination with the Board of Peace. The move is expected to strengthen diplomatic engagement and streamline future cooperation efforts.

In turn, Shahin expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s consistent political advocacy on behalf of Palestine. She also conveyed gratitude for Indonesia’s humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people amid ongoing challenges.

Sugiono emphasized that Indonesia would work to ensure that any transition process aligns with the interests of the Palestinian people and the principles of international law. He reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding the ceasefire and promoting a credible political process toward a Two-State Solution.

Regarding Indonesia’s potential troop contribution to the ISF, Sugiono underscored a humanitarian focus. “The primary focus of the Indonesian contingent is the protection of civilians and humanitarian support,” he said.

Concluding the meeting, Sugiono affirmed that Indonesia would continue to utilize international forums to rally broader support for Palestine. He announced plans to host a Special Session on Palestine in Jakarta on April 15, 2026, on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit, as part of efforts to strengthen international solidarity and backing for the Palestinian cause.

Indonesia also expressed its intention to welcome the Palestinian foreign minister for a future visit to Jakarta. The meeting underscored Indonesia’s ongoing commitment of combining political advocacy, humanitarian assistance, and multilateral engagement in support of Palestinian statehood aspirations.