Amidst the constant attacks on Ukraine by Russia, Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo has announced that both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to attend November’s G20 summit to be held in Bali.
Widodo, who is also the current chairman of the G20 group, revealed this in a televised statement after telephone conversations with both Presidents. However, it is still unknown if Putin would be attending in person or virtually. The invite extended to Zelensky is a special one on behalf of the head of the host nation as Ukraine is currently not a part of the G20.
He mentioned that he emphasized the need for both leaders of Ukraine and Russia to negotiate an end to the war.
“I reiterated the importance of ending the war immediately,” he said.
“I also emphasized that peaceful efforts should continue and Indonesia is ready to contribute to these peaceful efforts.”
Widodo said that he invited Putin and Zelenskyy to the G20 summit as the war in Ukraine was affecting the global economy.
“We understand that the G20 plays the catalyst role in the recovery of the global economy,” Widodo said.
Widodo also revealed that he rejected the Ukrainian leader’s request for arms but offered to help with humanitarian aid.
“The mandate of Indonesia’s constitution and the principles of our foreign policy prohibit us from providing arms assistance to other countries,” Widodo said.
“However, we are ready to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine.”
