Jakarta — Indonesia’s Defense Minister and President-elect, Prabowo Subianto, received warm greetings from Pope Francis, the global leader of the Catholic Church and Head of State of the Vatican, during the Pope’s visit to Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, September 4.
“I send my warmest regards to the President-elect (Prabowo) as you embark on your term of service, bringing fruitful results for Indonesia, a vast archipelago with thousands upon thousands of islands connected by the sea, linking Asia to Oceania,” Pope Francis said in his speech at the palace.
Prabowo acknowledged Pope Francis’ greeting with a smile and a nod from his seat.
In his address, Pope Francis expressed admiration for Indonesia’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), highlighting its significance in uniting the diverse people of Indonesia into one nation.
“Your country’s motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, meaning ‘unity in diversity’, expresses the reality of many different people firmly united as one nation,” Pope Francis remarked.
Pope Francis emphasized the importance of tolerance and harmony in Indonesia, where people of different faiths coexist peacefully, fostering solidarity and unity.
“Solidarity and the pursuit of peace, both within society and with other nations, are essential for ensuring a harmonious and fruitful coexistence. This guarantees peace and reinforces efforts to eliminate inequality and suffering across various regions,” he added.
Earlier that morning, Pope Francis was greeted with enthusiasm by schoolchildren dressed in traditional Indonesian attire at Merdeka Palace. His state visit was further celebrated with a parade, an honor guard, and a marching band. The theme of his visit was Faith, Brotherhood, and National Defense.
During the event, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) introduced Prabowo Subianto as Indonesia’s president-elect to Pope Francis for the first time. Prabowo greeted the Pope with a bow and also offered a salute to Jokowi.
Pope Francis shared a message on the importance of maintaining harmony among nations, noting that harmony can only be achieved through collective commitment and not personal interests.
“Harmony is achieved when we commit not only to our own interests and visions but to the common good—by building bridges, strengthening agreements and synergies, and uniting efforts to overcome moral, economic, and social suffering, all in pursuit of peace and harmony,” Pope Francis emphasized.
Concluding his speech, Pope Francis prayed for continued blessings upon Indonesia.
“May God bless Indonesia with peace, for a hopeful future. May God bless all of you,” he concluded, receiving applause from the audience.
Prabowo also played a key role in preparing for Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia by organizing the use of the Maung MV3 vehicle, produced by PT Pindad. The Pope will use this vehicle during his Holy Mass at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on September 5, 2024. (RR)
