Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono noted that the President highlighted this directive during a discussion with several former presidents, vice presidents, former foreign affairs ministers, and political party leaders at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday evening.
"The President also conveyed that whatever happens, we must be prepared for any eventuality," he told the press after the meeting.
Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East, Sugiono affirmed that he has instructed the Indonesian Ambassador in Tehran to take immediate evacuation steps for any Indonesian citizens who wish to be repatriated.
He noted that not all Indonesians in the affected areas have requested evacuation. However, since some in Iran have expressed their willingness to leave, the repatriation process is being carried out in stages.
The minister mentioned that as the situation continues to evolve, the government will closely monitor the ongoing dynamics.
Regarding diplomatic efforts, Sugiono stated that he has communicated with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
During their conversation, he expressed Indonesia’s regret over the failure of negotiations, which led to the escalation of the conflict.
He said Indonesia also reaffirmed the principle of respecting a country's territorial integrity and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of returning to the negotiating table to defuse tensions.
Furthermore, Sugiono conveyed President Prabowo’s desire to act as a mediator in efforts to de-escalate the situation in the region.
President Prabowo Subianto invited several figures to the Tuesday meeting to exchange views on various issues, including geopolitics.
Former presidents and vice presidents in attendance included the 6th President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the 7th President Joko Widodo, the 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla, the 11th Vice President Boediono, and the 13th Vice President Ma'ruf Amin.
The meeting lasted approximately three and a half hours, starting at 7:30 p.m. and concluding around 11:00 p.m.
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Translator: Fathur Rochman, Raka Adji
Editor: Arie Novarina
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