In a historic visit to Indonesia, Pope Francis delivered his first speech on Indonesian soil on Wednesday at the Istana Negara presidential palace in Jakarta. The event marked a significant moment as the Pope met with the country’s authorities, civil society, and diplomatic corps.

Welcomed by President Joko Widodo, the Pope was greeted by a vibrant crowd of Indonesian children waving Vatican and Indonesian flags, alongside members of the presidential guard. In a symbolic gesture, Pope Francis signed the Book of Honour, writing in Italian: "Immersed in the beauty of this land, a place of encounter and dialogue between different cultures and religions, I wish the Indonesian people growth in faith, fraternity, and compassion. God bless Indonesia!"

Emphasizing Unity in Diversity
In his address, Pope Francis highlighted Indonesia's rich cultural and religious diversity, praising the nation’s ability to unite its many ethnicities and faiths. “Your national motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (United in Diversity, literally Many but One) captures well this multifaceted reality of diverse peoples firmly united in one nation,” he remarked.

The Pope underscored that harmony in diversity is a delicate balance that must be continually defended. He urged all Indonesians to embrace a spirit of fraternity, striving for equity, respect for human rights, sustainable development, and peace.

Commitment to the Common Good
Pope Francis affirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to promoting interreligious dialogue and fostering peaceful and fruitful harmony in Indonesia. He emphasized that such dialogue is crucial in eliminating prejudices and creating mutual respect and trust. “The Catholic Church,” he stated, “is at the service of the common good and wishes to strengthen cooperation with public institutions and other actors in civil society.”

Justice and Mutual Respect
Drawing from Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution, which refers to "Almighty God" and social justice, the Pope highlighted these as fundamental principles guiding the nation's social order. He praised Indonesia’s balanced and wise approach to governance, recalling the words of Pope St. John Paul II during his 1989 visit to Jakarta, who had encouraged the respect for “the human and political life of all citizens” and the promotion of national unity based on tolerance and respect for others.

Pope Francis concluded his address with a powerful message on peace, emphasizing that “harmony is achieved when we are committed not only to our own interests and vision, but to the good of all.” He called on everyone to work together in building bridges, fostering agreements, and promoting peace and concord across the nation.

This visit marks a significant chapter in the relationship between the Vatican and Indonesia, with Pope Francis’ words resonating deeply in a country known for its cultural richness and religious diversity.