"We must ensure a peaceful Indo-Pacific region," Hartarto said in a meeting with Blair in Jakarta on Friday.
He said that the Indo-Pacific becomes an attractive destination for investment by keeping conflicts away from the region.
Given its strategic position, Indonesia should optimize its role in maintaining regional peace, Hartarto emphasized.
He added that the Tony Blair Institute is prepared to assist Indonesia in maintaining peace in the region.
During the meeting, Hartarto and Blair also highlighted the need for restraint among all countries in responding to renewed hostilities between Israel and Iran.
Contrasting Israel’s excessive action in the Gaza Strip following Hamas’ intrusion into its territory on October 7, 2023, Hartarto considered Israel’s response to Iran’s actions as limited.
"Israel is now being overwhelmed by Hamas and Hezbollah (in Lebanon)," he said, adding that Iran and Israel engage in tit-for-tat actions to save face.
Their actions are limited and are not expected to have further impact, he added.
Hartarto also emphasized that an escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict is undesirable for any country since ongoing geopolitical conflicts, such as the Russo-Ukraine War, have negatively impacted the global commodity supply line.
"We have had enough of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. For Indonesia's interest, greater stability in global politics is preferable," he said.
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Translator: Uyu Liman, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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