Pope Francis Advocates for Harmony in Diversity in Indonesia Amid Extensive Southeast Asia Tour

Pope Francis embarked on an 11-day tour of Southeast Asia, starting in Indonesia, to promote harmony and counter religious intolerance. He met with Indonesian leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity amid diversity. Francis addressed religious leaders, noting the crucial role of interreligious dialogue in combating extremism and intolerance.

Pope Francis urged Indonesia to uphold its commitment to "harmony in diversity" while condemning religious intolerance during a rigorous 11-day, four-nation tour through Southeast Asia and Oceania. Despite a challenging schedule, Francis remained energetic, engaging with outgoing President Joko Widodo, President-elect Prabowo Subianto, and Catholic clergy in Jakarta.

Cannons saluted Francis as he joined Widodo and Subianto at the presidential palace. He lauded Indonesia's diversity, drawing parallels to the nation's 17,000 islands and stressing the need to defend its delicate cultural balance against conflict and extremism.

Francis underscored the Catholic Church's commitment to fostering interreligious dialogue. He highlighted global conflicts and Indonesia's role in promoting peace, touching on the plight of Rohingya refugees and ongoing violence in Gaza. He called for unity and tolerance to create a better world, emphasizing the Catholic Church's contributions.

(With inputs from agencies.)