"The President has entrusted me with a letter for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The letter contains congratulatory remarks, words of support, and a message encouraging Indonesia and the Vatican to collaborate as pillars of peace and unity, and to find solutions to humanitarian issues," he stated.
As cited in his official statement released in Jakarta on Sunday, Iskandar spoke highly of Pope Leo XIV, noting that the Indonesian nation could draw inspiration from the Catholic leader's commitment to aiding the poor.
He also emphasized the need for Indonesia and the Vatican to intensify bilateral dialogues to foster meaningful cooperation in addressing humanitarian issues.
"We have the potential to cooperate in encouraging religions in Indonesia and around the world to play a direct role in promoting justice, unity, brotherhood, and humanity," he pointed out.
The minister explained that his visit to the Vatican was also aimed at reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to world peace and universal human values, in addition to representing the president at the pontiff's inaugural Mass.
He mentioned meeting with global leaders since his arrival in the Vatican, adding, "They all expressed hope that the Vatican and all nations will work together to build a just and peaceful world free from humanitarian crises."
Coordinating Minister Iskandar arrived in Rome on Saturday, May 17, accompanied by Minister of Cooperatives, Budi Arie Setiadi, to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday.
Translator: Anita P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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