The report by Israeli news outlet Ynet states that Indonesia and Israel held the negotiations, which sought to "normalize" relations in return for Israel's support for Indonesia's OECD membership bid, in 2024.
"There was never such a meeting," Mahendra said here on Thursday.
The Israeli media's claim that the two countries sought to "normalize" relations is incorrect, since Indonesia and Israel do not enjoy any diplomatic relations, he added.
The minister clarified that Israel had indeed said it would support Indonesia's OECD candidacy on the condition of opening diplomatic relations. However, he informed, the request was rejected by Indonesia.
He added that for securing a membership in international organizations, including the United Nations (UN), there is no requirement to establish diplomatic ties with all other members.
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"I myself attended the OECD meeting in Paris at the end of March 2025 and delivered a speech with the President of Guatemala. There were no issues such as those reported by the Israeli news outlet discussed at the meeting," he informed.
He then emphasized that Indonesia's nomination as an OECD member does not depend on Israel's stance or support.
The minister said the issue regarding the opening of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Israel came back in the spotlight after President Prabowo Subianto emphasized Indonesia's support for a two-state solution to resolve the Palestine-Israel conflict.
Indonesia has been consistent in its position that it fully supports the independence and establishment of a Palestinian state as a solution to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
"Israel must first recognize the independence of Palestine. Based on this recognition, Indonesia will consider opening diplomatic relations with Israel," the minister stressed.
Related news: Indonesia fully support the independence of Palestine
Translator: Agatha Olivia Victoria, Katriana
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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