Jakarta. Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir on Thursday urged Indonesian citizens living in or visiting Europe to avoid demonstrations and refrain from involvement in local political activities amid reports of unrest in several countries.

"For Indonesian citizens in Europe, we ask them to exercise caution, stay safe and avoid getting involved in political affairs unfolding there," Arrmanatha said after a bilateral meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong at the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta.

Arrmanatha said Indonesian diplomatic missions across Europe were closely monitoring developments and had issued safety advisories urging Indonesian nationals to remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings.

He encouraged Indonesians to prioritize their personal safety and focus on their regular activities, including studying and working.

Indonesian nationals were also advised to follow security updates from Indonesian embassies and comply with instructions issued by authorities in their host countries.

The warning comes amid reports of demonstrations in parts of Europe, raising concerns about potential disruptions and risks to public safety.

The Foreign Ministry did not specify which countries or cities posed the greatest risks to Indonesian nationals, or whether any Indonesians had been affected by the unrest.

The unrest in Europe has been particularly severe in France, where student-led protests over deteriorating educational conditions expanded into nationwide demonstrations against rising living costs and declining public services.

On Oct. 17, hundreds of thousands of people took part in demonstrations across France. Although most protests were peaceful, violent groups attacked public buildings and clashed with police in several cities. In Limoges, a historic city hall was severely damaged by fire, while protesters stormed a municipal building in Marseille.

Demonstrations over economic pressures and public services have also taken place elsewhere in Europe, including Greece, although the protests have reflected different national circumstances and demands.

Add as a preferred source on Google +