"As long as Palestine is not independent, Indonesia stands against the Israeli occupation," Maharani noted in a statement here on Friday.
The principle of a two-state solution, necessitating Palestinian independence, is an absolute requirement that Israel must fulfill, she stated.
In the absence of Israeli recognition of the Palestinian independence, Indonesia will remain firm in its stance to not open diplomatic relations with Israel, the daughter of Megawati Soekarnoputri, chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), emphasized.
Maharani issued the statement in response to the Israeli media's reports on speculation that Indonesia would be next to follow on the steps of several Arab countries to open diplomatic relations with Israel.
In Indonesia, this issue fueled a controversy following the reopening of calling visas for citizens of several countries with certain vulnerabilities, including Israel.
Calling visas have been in effect since 2012 in accordance with the Regulation of the Justice and Human Rights Ministry Number.M.HH-01.GR.01.06 of 2012. However, the calling visa policy does not alter Indonesia's stance that has no diplomatic ties with Israel.
In connection with calling visas, the House Speaker urged the government to exercise caution and be careful to not be misinterpreted as a hint to open ties with Israel.
"Make sure it is in accordance with the international rules and continue to strengthen communication with the Palestinians," she stated. Related news: Indonesia should not normalize ties with Israel: Ulema Council
Related news: Stop granting visas to Israelis, BKSAP DPR urges govt
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Translator: Imam Budilaksono, Fardah
Editor: Suharto
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