France, Indonesia Call for Progress on Israeli-Palestinian 'Mutual Recognition'
France and Indonesia on Wednesday called for progress on "mutual recognition" between Israel and the Palestinians at an international conference meant to resurrect the idea of a two-state solution next month as French President Emmanuel Macron visited Jakarta.
"The conference should... restore a political prospect of a peaceful settlement of this conflict, which should allow for an irreversible path towards the realization of a Palestinian State, (and) mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine," the nations said in a joint statement. France will co-chair the conference.
Macron is leaning towards recognizing a Palestinian state, diplomats and experts say, a move that could infuriate Israel and deepen Western splits.
"Only a political solution will make it possible to restore peace and build for the long term," Macron said in Jakarta.
"Together with Saudi Arabia, we will soon be organizing a conference on Gaza in New York to give fresh impetus to the recognition of a Palestinian state and the recognition of the State of Israel and its right to live in peace and security in this region."
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto said his country is willing to recognize and open diplomatic relations with Israel if an independent Palestinian state is recognized by Tel Aviv.
Standing alongside the French president, Prabowo said Israel's security needs to be guaranteed, and that France would also continue to support steps towards independence for a Palestinian state.
Indonesia does not recognize or share any diplomatic relations with Israel.
Macron arrived in Indonesia's capital on Tuesday evening with French First Lady Brigitte Macron for a three-day visit to Southeast Asia's largest economy. It was the second stop in his tour of the region after Vietnam.
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