Jakarta – The leader of the world’s Catholics, Pope Francis, is making a state visit to Indonesia, September 3-6, 2024. On Wednesday (4/9), the Pope met with President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) at the State Palace in Jakarta.
President Jokowi said the issue of world peace was a topic discussed with Pope Francis, including conflicts that are currently ongoing in various parts of the world. According to him, this needs to be discussed because it concerns conflicts resulting from war, such as in Gaza and Ukraine.
“I think that is very important so that peace in all war conflicts, whether in Gaza, in Ukraine, and other small-scale conflicts that also exist in several countries, can also be resolved,” said Jokowi.
Meanwhile, Pope Francis stressed that he is always following the developments of the war in Gaza. According to him, this must be stopped, the release of hostages must continue, and aid must be provided to the exhausted population.
“I appeal to all parties to make every effort to prevent the conflict from spreading and to take the path of negotiations to end this tragedy as soon as possible. Let us not forget that war is defeat,” the Pope said.
As previously reported, Pope Francis’ visit is part of his apostolic journey to several countries. After Indonesia, the Pope visited Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste and Singapore.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is not only a religious visit, but also carries an important mission related to global issues as well as a humanitarian mission and a mission of brotherhood.
