Indonesia to Normalize Diplomatic Relations with Israel as part of OECD Bid

Indonesia, the largest Muslim-majority country in the world, is poised to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel, marking a significant shift in their historical relationship. This move comes as part of Indonesia's ambitious bid to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), following months of discreet negotiations involving both countries and the international organization. The news was reported by Ynet on Thursday.

Amidst the backdrop of heightened tensions and conflict in Gaza, Indonesia's decision to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel as part of its bid to join the OECD appears remarkably counterintuitive. The ongoing turmoil in Gaza has underscored the longstanding animosity between Israel and many Muslim-majority nations, with Indonesia traditionally aligning itself with the Palestinian cause. Against this backdrop, the move to establish diplomatic ties with Israel represents a significant departure from Indonesia's historical stance and has sparked surprise and debate both domestically and internationally. It has to be noted that despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, there have been in the past some instances of unofficial contacts and cooperation between Israel and Indonesia, particularly in areas such as trade and technology. Additionally, there have been reports of Indonesian officials meeting with Israeli counterparts on occasions, although such encounters are usually kept low-profile due to political sensitivities.

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Indonesia has expressed a keen interest in joining the OECD, a process that requires the consensus of all 38 member states. One of the prerequisites for membership is the establishment of diplomatic relations with all member states, including Israel.

Initially, the OECD urged Israel to refrain from objecting to Indonesia's bid. However, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Katz declined, citing Indonesia's past criticisms of Israel, particularly regarding the conflict in Gaza and its support for legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

In response to Katz's stance, OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann intervened, appealing to both parties to find a resolution. After deliberations, it was agreed that Indonesia would commit to establishing diplomatic ties with Israel before the OECD's final vote on its membership.

In a formal letter to Katz, Secretary-General Cormann expressed gratitude for Israel's willingness to engage in discussions regarding Indonesia's OECD membership. This decision not only reflects Indonesia's desire for OECD accession but also signifies a potential thaw in relations between Indonesia and Israel.

However, Indonesia's journey towards OECD membership is not without its challenges. The process entails a rigorous technical evaluation, expected to span two to three years, during which Indonesia will undergo scrutiny across 26 committees assessing various aspects of its legislation, policies, and regulations.

Remarkably, each committee will include an Israeli expert, providing Israel with a structured avenue to engage with Indonesia. This inclusion also grants Israel the ability to veto Indonesia's accession should diplomatic normalization fail to materialize.

Indonesia's decision to embark on this path marks a significant departure from its traditional stance on Israel and underscores the country's commitment to global economic integration. While the road ahead may be arduous, the prospect of normalized relations between Indonesia and Israel presents a glimmer of hope for regional cooperation and stability.

As Indonesia navigates the complexities of OECD membership, the world watches with anticipation, eager to witness the evolution of diplomatic dynamics in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.