Pope Francis Kicks Off Historic Asia-Pacific Tour in Indonesia

Pope Francis landed in Indonesia, starting a 12-day Asia-Pacific tour where he is expected to address climate change. The 87-year-old pontiff arrived in Jakarta and will visit East Timor, Singapore, and Papua New Guinea, emphasizing global environmental challenges. His trip will also include inter-religious meetings and political addresses.

Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday, embarking on an ambitious Asia-Pacific tour where climate change advocacy will be a key focus. The 87-year-old pontiff, traveling via a chartered ITA Airways flight, was warmly greeted at Jakarta's Soekarno–Hatta airport by local dignitaries and children in traditional attire.

Following his arrival, Francis was received by Indonesia's religious affairs minister and the ambassador to the Vatican, along with several bishops, before taking time to rest after his 13-hour flight from Rome. His public engagements will begin on Wednesday with an address to Indonesia's political leaders.

The Asia-Pacific trip, the longest yet for the pope, will cover nearly 33,000 km and include stops in East Timor, Singapore, and Papua New Guinea. Francis plans to discuss climate change extensively, particularly highlighting the vulnerabilities of Jakarta, a megacity threatened by chronic flooding and land subsidence.

(With inputs from agencies.)