Jokowi, Prabowo Welcome Pope Francis at Jakarta State Palace

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Pope Francis arrived at Indonesia’s State Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. Entering the Palace complex in a white Innova Zenix car with the license plate SCV 1, the Pope was greeted by a welcoming parade of children dressed in traditional attire.

“Welcome to Indonesia,” the children exclaimed. Francis smiled as he entered the State Palace grounds, with the car window on the left open wide.

Pope Francis will meet with President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo and several Indonesian officials. The President-elect, Prabowo Subianto, was also present to welcome the Pope.

The Bishop of Rome will convey a message about the significance of religious leaders participating in various state matters, such as politics and social issues, to contribute to harmony and prioritize humanitarian interests.

Pope Francis was also welcomed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, and representatives of the Vatican Apostolic Nunciature in Indonesia. 

President Jokowi greeted the Pope inside the State Palace. Residents outside the State Palace fence, who were waiting for Pope Francis' arrival, cheered when the leader of 1.2 billion Catholics emerged from the Palace.

During the welcoming ceremony, the Pope stood without holding his staff. As the Vatican's grand instrument played, Pope Francis bowed. He raised his head when the Indonesian national anthem, "Indonesia Raya", began to play.

FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA

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