Germany and Indonesia Call for Ceasefire in Gaza, Enhanced Economic Partnership

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono met in Jakarta to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The two ministers expressed support for a two-state solution and called for an immediate ceasefire, with Wadephul stating that a peaceful resolution would be in the interests of all parties involved. The meeting also focused on strengthening economic ties between Germany and Indonesia, with negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement likely to be concluded in 2026.

Key Takeaways:

The foreign ministers of Germany and Indonesia called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas, citing the unbearable humanitarian catastrophe in the region.
Wadephul and Sugiono emphasized the importance of a two-state solution as the sole means of ending the conflict, with Wadephul stating that "the goal for all of us is clear: a two-state solution, which must be negotiated."
Indonesia is a longtime supporter of Palestine and does not recognize Israel, while Germany supports Israel's fight against Hamas but calls on Israel to take further measures to alleviate suffering in Gaza.
Germany and Indonesia are strengthening their economic partnership, with trade volume last year reaching $6.15 billion and European investment in Indonesia exceeding $343 million in 2024.
Negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are expected to be concluded in 2026, with the agreement aimed at expanding opportunities for cooperation, particularly in the economic sector.
Germany has committed €1.6 billion to Indonesia's clean energy future through the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
The meeting highlighted Indonesia's role as an anchor of stability in Southeast Asia, particularly during the mediation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Statistics:

Germany supports Israel's fight against Hamas, but calls on Israel to further alleviate suffering in Gaza. (No specific statistic on this)
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that trade volume between Germany and Indonesia reached $6.15 billion in 2024.
European investment in Indonesia exceeded $343 million in 2024.
Germany has committed €1.6 billion to Indonesia's clean energy future through the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
Negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are expected to be concluded in 2026.

Sources:

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)