Indonesian minister responds after IOC ban

Indonesia - Ảnh 1. — Indonesian Sports Minister Erick Thohir responds after IOC ban - Photo: REUTERS

Previously, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) not only called on all international sports federations to stop organizing events in Indonesia but also announced to cut off all discussions on the possibility of this Southeast Asian country hosting the 2036 Olympics.

This comes after Indonesia denied visas to Israeli gymnasts to compete in the World Championships in Jakarta, a move that came after strong opposition from both the government and the Muslim clerical council.

On the afternoon of October 23, Indonesian Sports Minister Erick Thohir spoke out to defend the government 's controversial decision despite strong reactions from the international sports community.

"We adhere to the principle of maintaining security, public order and public interest when hosting any international event," Mr. Erick Thohir shared on his social media account. At the same time, he affirmed that this principle is part of the Indonesian constitution and is based on the country's obligation to maintain world order.

Jakarta explained that this decision is completely in line with Indonesia's foreign policy of severing diplomatic relations with Israel until it recognizes the independence of the Palestinian state.

Minister Thohir admitted that Indonesia is well aware of the consequences of refusing to accept Israeli athletes. This includes not being allowed to host any world championships, Olympic events, Youth Olympic Games or other sporting events within the Olympic scope.

However, he reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to continue playing an active role in other regional and international sporting events. This firm decision shows that for Indonesia, national political and religious stance still takes precedence over international sporting interests.

TUAN LONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/bo-truong-indonesia-len-tieng-dap-tra-sau-khi-ioc-ra-lenh-cam-20251023154125953.htm