United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has commended Indonesia for its significant role in fostering international cooperation and peacekeeping efforts. During his speech at the Foreign Policy Circle Talks in Jakarta, Guterres underscored Indonesia’s contributions to multilateralism, particularly highlighting its diplomatic influence within the Asia-Pacific region and the Global South.
Guterres recalled Indonesia’s historical involvement in promoting non-alignment and national self-determination, referencing the 1955 Asian-African Conference held in Bandung. He emphasized Indonesia’s active participation in major international organizations such as the United Nations, ASEAN, the G20, and BRICS, which showcases its commitment to global dialogue and cooperation.
The Secretary-General also praised the collaboration between ASEAN and the UN in areas like conflict prevention, sustainable development, and human rights. He pointed out that Indonesia’s efforts extend to significant contributions in UN peacekeeping missions, with nearly 2,000 Indonesian military and police personnel serving across seven missions worldwide.
During his visit to a peacekeeping training center in Sentul, West Java, Guterres met with Indonesian personnel preparing for deployment to the UN mission in the Central African Republic. He lauded their training and dedication, viewing it as a testament to Indonesia’s enduring commitment to international peacekeeping.
Guterres concluded by affirming that Indonesia’s diplomatic engagement and peacekeeping initiatives have fortified its position as a vital promoter of dialogue and cooperation on the global stage.