President Jokowi, Muslim Council of Elders Discuss Ulema’s Role in Facing Global Challenges
President Jokowi receives Secretary General of Muslim Council of Elders Muhammed Abdelsalam at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java province, on Thursday (01/04). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Vico)
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Thursday (01/04) received Secretary General of Muslim Council of Elders Muhammed Abdelsalam at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java province, in a meeting that discussed efforts to enhance cooperation between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates’ community organizations.
President Jokowi also underscored the importance of roles of ulemas and scholars in addressing global problems and challenges. The meeting, he said, is expected to generate initiatives that can be implemented together.
He went on to deliver appreciation for efforts made by the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting peace and the values of tolerance, coexistence, and fraternity, as well as promoting broader roles of religious figures and leaders in facing global challenges including climate change and the impact.
President Jokowi also appreciated the cooperation that has been established between the Muslim Council of Elders, Nahdhatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, Indonesia’s two large Islamic organizations, in strengthening fraternity and coexistence, especially regarding recent developments in humanitarian conditions.
In the meantime, Mohammed Abdelsalam conveyed his appreciation to President Jokowi and Indonesian nation for their roles in overcoming various problems. Indonesia is considered to display a model of Islamic civilization with religious and cultural diversity that inspires other nations, especially in the Southeast Asia region.
Abdelsalam also stated that in the future there will be many initiatives and plans for cooperation between the Muslim Council of Elders’ Southeast Asia Regional Branch, including the Jakarta branch, with various religious institutions and the Government in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. This collaboration, he continued, aims to build communication and prioritize the values of dialogue and coexistence.
In addition, Mohammed Abdelsalam also expressed his appreciation to Indonesia for the humanitarian assistance provided by Indonesia in order to create global peace, especially in supporting the Palestinian people. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/AIT) (RAS/LW)
