Pope Francis' Landmark Tour in Indonesia: A Quest for Interfaith Harmony

Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia, the country with the world’s largest Muslim population, to encourage its Catholic community and highlight interfaith harmony. The 11-day trip includes visits to Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore. His agenda focuses on environmental care, conflict resolution, and ethical economic development.

Pope Francis commenced his longest tour yet, arriving in Indonesia to bolster its Catholic community and celebrate interfaith harmony. Indonesia houses the world's largest Muslim population.

Following an overnight flight from Rome, Francis landed in Jakarta and was greeted with a ceremonial welcome. Two children in traditional attire presented him with a bouquet of local produce. Planned engagements included meeting with refugees and sick individuals.

On Wednesday, Francis will meet Indonesian political leaders and clergy, fostering Catholic growth in Asia. Indonesian President Joko Widodo emphasized shared commitments to peace and brotherhood. The visit highlights Indonesia's religious tolerance, but recent events have tested this image.

The highlight of the visit is an interfaith meeting at Jakarta's Istiqlal mosque, alongside the grandeur of neighboring Catholic and Protestant sites. The trip's primary themes include environmental care and ethical economic development.

(With inputs from agencies.)