Jokowi Looks Forward to Discuss Global Peace with Pope Francis
Tasikmalaya, The Gulf Observer: President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has expressed his strong desire to engage in discussions on global peace, particularly in relation to ongoing conflicts, during Pope Francis apostolic journey and state visit to Indonesia scheduled for September 2024. The President made this statement on Thursday following the inauguration of the Leuwikeris Dam and the modernization and rehabilitation of the Menganti Irrigation Area in Tasikmalaya District, West Java.
“Peace is a crucial matter that I hope to discuss with the Pope,” President Jokowi remarked, emphasizing the significance of this dialogue in addressing global challenges.
During the upcoming visit, President Jokowi plans to discuss efforts to resolve major world conflicts, including the ongoing crises in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as other regional disputes. “We will discuss peace in all conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, and explore ways to address issues in other countries,” he added.
President Jokowi also expressed his intention to accompany Pope Francis during his visit to key locations in Jakarta, including the Istiqlal Mosque and Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Stadium. “As much as possible, I will accompany him,” the President affirmed.
Earlier, Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, Chairman of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI), highlighted that Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is primarily focused on humanitarian and solidarity missions. He hopes that the visit, which had been postponed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will reinforce Indonesia’s role as an agent of humanitarian solidarity in Asia.
Jakarta Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo also underscored the Vatican’s interest in understanding the unique practice of Islam in Indonesia. “Islam in Indonesia is different, which makes it particularly interesting for them in Europe, especially for the Vatican,” he noted.
The Archbishop emphasized that the Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral, standing side by side, symbolize Indonesia’s harmonious interfaith relations. He further stated that Pope Francis’ visit aims to appreciate and encourage the continued development of brotherhood in the country.
The visit will also be marked by the presence of around 60 bishops, including representatives from Australia and other Asian nations, who will join in welcoming Pope Francis to Indonesia.