Abbott says Indonesian president "carefully considering" death penalty stance

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott confirmed on Thursday that Indonesia is "carefully considering" its stance on the death penalty following "positive" conversations with President Joko Widodo.

Australia is currently pleading with the Indonesian government for clemency for two of its citizens, who were sentenced to death for smuggling 8.3 kg of heroin from Indonesia to Australia in 2005.

Earlier in the week, both Andrew Chan, 31, and Myuran Sukumaran, 33, were denied a review into their failed applications for clemency, with the pair set to be executed imminently.

However, Australia's representations continue, with Abbott holding a conversation via phone with Widodo on Thursday before revealing details of the productive discussion.

"It was a positive sign that the conversation took place," Abbott told reporters.

"I don't think it would help the case of these two young Australians if I was to start ventilating in public the contents of the conversation. Suffice to say that the president absolutely understands our position ... and I think he is carefully considering Indonesia's position," he said.

But Abbott stressed that his comments were not intended to raise hopes that both Chan and Sukumaran's lives would be spared.

"I don't want to raise hope that might turn out to be dashed. I don't want to reflect on Indonesia or my friend, President Joko Widodo," the prime minister said.

"I want to ensure that as far as is humanly possible, I am speaking out for Australians and for Australian values. But I also have to respect and defend Australia's friendships. One of the very best of our friendships is that with Indonesia." Endi