The leader of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country praised Pope Farncis’ stance on the ongoing conflict between Israel and the people of Palestine.
“Indonesia appreciates the stance and position of the Holy Father, who tirelessly calls for peace in Palestine and advocates for the two-state solution because war brings no benefit to any of us,” said President Joko Widodo.
Widodo made the statement during the pontiff’s courtesy visit to the Istana Merdeka Presidential Palace on Wednesday morning.
Widodo said Indonesia is fortunate to have the Pancasila ideology “as the foundation of our country, allowing us to live in harmony with one another.”
He said the principle of peace and tolerance that Indonesia and the Vatican are trying to promote “is crucial” amid various conflicts in our world.
“As we all know, there are conflicts and wars in various parts of the world, including Palestine, where over 40,000 people have died,” he said.
Widodo reminded the public that war “brings no benefit to anyone” and that “it only brings suffering and misery, particularly to the vulnerable.”
In his speech, Pope Francis said it is unfortunate that there are tendencies in today’s world “that hinder the development of universal fraternity.”
He noted that in many regions, violent conflicts arise due to a lack of mutual respect and an intolerant drive to prioritize one’s own interests, position, or selective historical narrative, often at the expense of entire communities.
This, he added, results in wars, widespread suffering, and significant bloodshed.
The pontiff explained that conflicts within countries often emerge when those in power attempt to impose uniformity, enforcing their vision even in areas that should be left to the autonomy of individuals or groups.
“As a result, a considerable part of humanity is left on the margins, without the means for a dignified existence and no defense against the serious and growing social imbalances that trigger acute conflicts,” the pontiff said.
