Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Turkey’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Talip Kücükcan, addressed viral social media footage showing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan walking out during Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s speech at the Developing Eight (D-8) Summit in Cairo, Egypt.
In a widely circulated video, Erdogan appeared to walk out of the room while Prabowo was delivering his address at the summit on Thursday, December 19. The Turkish leader was also seen brushing against Prabowo’s chair as he exited.
Küçükcan described President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s exit during Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s speech was common norm during an international meeting.
“This is a case of normal and common diplomatic protocol. In fact, Turkey-Indonesia relations remain strong, and our leaders continue to communicate on issues of mutual interest,” Küçükcan stated, as reported by Kompas on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
Küçükcan also referenced a statement from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirming that the explanation provided aligns with established international norms.
Indonesian Ministry Clarification
According to CNN Indonesia, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously clarified that it is common for heads of delegations to move in and out of international forums like the D-8 Summit.
“It is customary for delegation leaders to engage in multiple parallel meetings during international events, including bilateral talks with other delegation heads in separate rooms,” said Ministry spokesperson Rolliansyah ‘Roy’ Soemirat.
Roy emphasized that delegation heads have the freedom to decide when to attend or leave the main session, as bilateral discussions often occur simultaneously with the primary forum.
He added that the Indonesian delegation could not comment on the schedules of other delegation leaders, who might not be able to stay for the entirety of the sessions.
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Roy also noted that Prabowo had brief meetings with all delegation heads before and after the summit, including Erdogan.
“Regarding President Erdogan specifically, it can be confirmed that both leaders engaged in a very friendly situation, including when sitting close together during the luncheon held after the summit ended,” Roy said.
Viral Erdogan Walk Out Video
The viral video sparked widespread speculation on social media, with users questioning Erdogan reasons for walking out just as Prabowo began his speech. In the address, Prabowo had been speaking about Israel’s violations of international law and the perceived disregard for Muslim-majority nations on the global stage.
Footage released by the Indonesian Presidential Secretariat indeed showed several delegates, including Erdogan, exiting the hall during Prabowo’s speech.
The Turkish government’s clarification appears aimed at dispelling speculation and reaffirming the friendly diplomatic relations between Turkey and Indonesia.
(Raidi/Agung)
