Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia On the Arrival of Pope Francis to Indonesia, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, September 3, 2024

I just finished chairing the final meeting to check the preparation for Pope Francis’ arrival. His Holiness Pope Francis will arrive in Jakarta in few hours.

This visit is a very historic one. It was planned for several years but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is also the third visit after His Holiness Pope Paul VI in 1970 and His Holiness Pope John Paul II in 1989.

Indonesia and the Vatican share a commitment to fostering peace and brotherhood and ensuring the well-being of humanity.

During his four-day visit, His Holiness Pope Francis will hold a state meeting, a meeting with the diplomatic corps and representatives of the society, a meeting with interfaith figures at the Istiqlal Mosque, and lead a Holy Mass.

On behalf of the Indonesian people, I warmly welcome and thank His Holiness Pope Francis for his visit to Indonesia. Welcome to Indonesia, His Holiness Pope Francis.

Thank you.

(EST/LW)