Jakarta – Pope Francis officially arrived at the State Palace today on his historic visit to Indonesia. The visit is part of his efforts to strengthen interfaith dialogue and promote unity amidst the diversity of Indonesian society. On the agenda of his visit to the State Palace, Pope Francis greeted Jakarta residents waiting around the Vatican Embassy in Jakarta, Gambir, Central Jakarta.
Upon arrival at the State Palace, Pope Francis was officially welcomed by President Jokowi. In this meaningful moment, President Jokowi was seen bowing to the Pope, signifying his recognition and respect for the leader of the Catholic Church. A warm and friendly atmosphere enveloped the meeting.
“Indonesia is an extraordinary country for differences that can unite as one nation. Here all tribes respect each other,” Pope Francis praised in his speech.
Pope Francis once mentioned the phrase Bhinneka Tunggal Ika and believed that all parties must pay attention to the balance between culture and ideology.
“Unity in Diversity. We must pay attention to the balance of cultural and ideological differences. We must always defend differences because they are artisanal works,” Pope Francis explained.
Pope Francis also shared a quote from a wise man that he said was important to remember.
“A wise man once said, politics is the ultimate freedom. We must fight extremism and intolerance that in the name of religion seeks to use violence to seize power. The Catholic Church wants to achieve peace and respect for all religions,” Pope Francis stressed.
President Jokowi also expressed his gratitude to the Vatican for continuing to voice independence for Palestine. Similar to the Vatican, Indonesia continues to support the Palestinian struggle.
“Indonesia greatly appreciates the Vatican’s stance which continues to speak out, calling for peace in Palestine and supporting a two-state solution,” said President Jokowi.
The president added that war would not benefit anyone so the Gaza war must be stopped.
“As we all know, conflicts and wars occur in various parts of the world, including in Palestine, which has claimed more than 40,000 lives. Because war will not benefit anyone, war will only bring suffering and misery to the common people,” he said.
The message of peace and unity delivered by Pope Francis is expected to be a foundation for society to continue working together in facing various challenges, and to realize a better Indonesia. With the spirit of brotherhood, this visit is expected to be the first step towards a more inclusive, tolerant, and respectful society.
Pope Francis then at 16.30 WIB, the Pope met with bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians, and catechists at the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption, Jakarta. Then, at 17.35 WIB, the Pope met with young people from Scholas Occurantes at the Youth Center Graha Pemuda Senayan.
