The visit of Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, serves as a testament to Indonesia's success in preserving the diversity it enjoys, the Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque Nasaruddin Umar said Wednesday.
"We truly appreciate the Pope for his willingness to visit our beloved country. His visit proves that Indonesia is a country that is genuinely true to its Unity and Diversity motto. We are different, but we unite under a single banner of Indonesia," he affirmed.
Speaking at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Wednesday, Umar highlighted that the Indonesian nation is indeed notable for its respect and love towards visitors.
"In fact, Islam encourages Muslims to treat guests with the utmost respect, even if the guests are not fellow believers," he highlighted.
In connection with Pope Francis' plan to participate in an interfaith dialogue at Istiqlal Mosque tomorrow, the grand imam underlined that Prophet Muhammad was accustomed to engaging in dialog with people of different beliefs.
"Tomorrow's event is essentially our means to continue the tradition demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad. God willing, the event will run smoothly and become a historic moment," he stated.
Umar also spoke of the Vatican leader being enthusiastic to pass through the 38.3-meter-long Tunnel of Friendship that connects Istiqlal Mosque to the Jakarta Cathedral.
"He is very impressed by the tunnel and is keen to enter it," he remarked.
Earlier in the morning, President Joko Widodo received Pope Francis at the Merdeka Palace to discuss Indonesia-Vatican relations, global issues, and peace-building efforts.
The Holy See leader's visit to Indonesia is part of his Asia-Pacific apostolic journey, taking place on September 3-13, the longest journey he has embarked on during his 11 years of service.
The Pope's decision to include Indonesia in his itinerary stems from the fact that despite being a Muslim-majority country, Indonesia is home to around 8.5 million Catholics who live peacefully alongside their interfaith brothers and sisters.
He is the third Vatican head of state to visit the country, following Pope Paul VI in 1970 and Pope John Paul II in 1989.
The Pope will remain in Indonesia until September 6 before continuing his journey to Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore. (Antara)
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