KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 (KUNA) -- Indonesia's authorities rejected on Friday to give entry visas to Israeli gymnastics mission, thus excluding it from partaking in the 2025 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships due in Jakarta on October 19-25.
Indonesia's gymnastic association chief Ita Juliati said the International Gymnastics Federation (IGF) told her about its official support to Indonesian government's stance that rejects granting visas to Israeli athletes.
Both local association and international federation of gymnastics kept intensive coordination to ensure the smoothness of the 53rd edition of the world championship without undermining the State's official political stance. Juliati noted that this tourney is an official event affiliated to IGF, while the Indonesian association takes charge of local organization.
She hoped that the event would create a positive impact that contributes to developing this sport in the country.
Meanwhile, head of the Indonesian National Olympic Committee Raja Sapta Oktohari affirmed his committee's full respect for his government's firm stance regarding preventing Israeli athletes from participation.
Oktohari elaborated that the decision was made carefully in the public interest to ensure the tournament proceeds safely, orderly, and successfully.
For his part, Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration Yusril Ihza Mahendra stressed the government would not issue visas to six Israeli athletes who were planning to partake in the event, considering this move supports the struggle of Palestinian people.
He referred Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto affirmed during his speech before the UN General Assembly that Indonesia will set up diplomatic ties with Israel until Palestinian people get their freedom and full sovereignty.
The championship which will be hosted by Jakarta this month is paramount as it is a qualifier for the next Olympic Games. (end) aab.hm