The training is a follow up of the Memorandum of Understanding on Education and Training Cooperation signed on Octeber 2007 by the Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. N. Hassan Wirajuda and Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Riad Al Maliki in the State Palace, Jakarta. The signing was witnessed by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and President Mahmoud Abbas.

The Diplomatic Training Program for Palestinian Diplomats is one of series of activities conducted by the Government of Indonesia in support to the Palestinian struggle for self-determination toward an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, living side by side peacefully with Israel in accordance with UN resolutions, Arab Peace Initiative 2002, Peace Road Map 2003, and the Annapolis Summit 2007.

The said diplomatic training will be participated by 10 (ten) mid-career Palestinian diplomats and government officials from Ramallah, Jerusalem, and Palestinian Missions abroad.

The Diplomatic Training Program for Palestinian Diplomats consists of three parts. First, Diplomatic Training Program which is conducted entirely by the Centre for Education and Training, Department of Foreign Affairs. The program is scheduled for 1 (one) month at the Centre. Second, Internship Program, where Palestinian officials will have the opportunity to do on-the-job training in units of the Department for Foreign Affairs for 1 (one) week. Third, Indonesian Cultural and Social Program, Palestinian officials will make a visit to Yogyakarta and interact with local leaders and people.

The training program will be opened by the Minister of Foreign Affairs on 10 July 2008 at 10.00 at the Pancasila Building. The ceremony will be attended by several Ambassadors from Middle East countries, Indonesian Government officials, as well as leaders of Indonesian Islamic Organizations.

Jakarta, 3 July 2008