Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas after meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, Sugiono, on Wednesday.

Both officials described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “unbearable” and emphasized that a negotiated two-state solution remains the only viable path to ending the Israel-Hamas conflict. “The goal for all of us is clear: a two-state solution, which must be negotiated,” Wadephul said.

Sugiono, who like many Indonesians goes by a single name, said the talks also covered geopolitical challenges and rising trade barriers. Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, is a longtime supporter of Palestine and does not recognize Israel.

Wadephul stressed Germany’s dual role: supporting Israel’s fight against Hamas while urging measures to ease suffering in Gaza. He also highlighted Indonesia and Japan as key economic partners in his five-day trip aimed at promoting free trade, fair competition, and stronger global partnerships.

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Germany is Indonesia’s main trading partner in Europe, with last year’s trade totaling $6.15 billion, while German investment in Indonesia reached $343 million in 2024. Negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are expected to conclude in 2026, with Germany committing €1.6 billion ($1.8 billion) to Indonesia’s clean energy transition.

Wadephul also praised Indonesia’s role in mediating regional conflicts and maintaining stability in Southeast Asia through ASEAN.

Source: Agency