The funny thing, in domestic politics in Indonesia, parliament members and other politicians were criticizing why Indonesia Government signed the resolution. They did not even ask the contradictory action from the government: signed to punish Iran but backed Iran up in developing its nuclear.

What kind of foreign affairs is it? Indonesians call it, “Free and active foreign policy.” or in Indonesian, “Politik luar negeri bebas aktif?” I call it, “Foreign policy without back bone.” That’s why Indonesia can not stand straight among other nations.

I have mentioned this in many of my writings, including in my motivational articles. First of all, have a “success mindset,” which is not a journey, nor a destination. It is a where you belong, within you. Second, to be seen as “successful,” one must be associated with those who are already perceived as successful.

Both principles also apply in relations among nations. How do other nations perceive Iran? Who are those other nations who perceive Iran as a “threat”? How does Indonesia want to be perceived? Iran’s friend? Other nations’ friend?

I think within the context of human relations, but these principles also apply greater context. Be a friend, not just an ally. A friend supports each other in good and bad situations, an ally prefers to work on a particular project.

Here, in this case, Indonesia showed the world that it is Iran’s ally. Indonesia still has an opportunity to show to the world that it can be other nations’ friend.

The question is now finding the right timing to show Indonesia’s compassion and genuine interest.

~ Jennie S. Bev
http://www.jenniesbev.com
http://www.jennieforindonesia.com