"The President has asked not to mix up sports with practical politics. The statement has to be interpreted this way by underlining practical politics," he told journalists at Gedung Nusantara II of DPR on Wednesday.
Dahlan said he believes that President Widodo’s statement is no different from the principle espoused by the nation's founding fathers, especially the first Indonesian president, Soekarno: to keep striving for an independent and sovereign Palestine.
"So, the President has given a remarkable statement," he remarked.
Dahlan said he sees the statement as proof that the President is indeed a good statesman.
For that reason, he asked that Widodo’s statement on the Israeli team not be misinterpreted in any way.
"What is not allowed is to fly political parties' flag at a stadium, which is one example of practical politics," he said.
In addition, Dahlan explained that the politics of Indonesia is clear about the nation's goals.
He said he believes that Widodo’s statement is in accordance with the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution of the State of the Republic of Indonesia (UUD RI).
"That is why the President wanted to clarify the fact to FIFA with no other intentions. We have our own view, and it is a national agreement. Remember, it is regulated not only by the state Constitution, but also by the Preamble to UUD RI 1945," he stressed.
"This was the very agreement that encouraged all communities to unite as one nation, Indonesia, even until now. As for a statement from PDIP members (political party) earlier, it was just a reminder," he said.
"President Jokowi (Widodo) has also stated that as the leader of this republic, he does not want practical politics to be mixed up with sports. Hence, Mister Erick Thohir (Indonesian Football Association head) was delegated to FIFA. Hopefully, there will be no further efforts to negate the President's statement with those of PDIP members," the lawmaker said.
Related news: Israel's presence at World Cup unrelated to foreign policy: Jokowi
Related news: Indonesia still lobbying FIFA on hosting World Cup: Minister
Related news: Indonesia ensures safety of World Cup teams, including Israel
Translator: Narda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
