Jakarta – Defense Minister and President-elect Prabowo Subianto recently posted a photo on social media showing him shaking hands with Pope Francis at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, September 4.
In the post, Prabowo warmly welcomed the distinguished guest, expressing his pride in Indonesia’s diversity and harmony.
“Accompanying President RI @jokowi in welcoming His Holiness Pope @franciscus, the Supreme Leader of the Catholic Church and Head of State of the Vatican, to Merdeka Palace, Jakarta. Welcome to Indonesia, Your Holiness Pope Francis. Indonesia is a country blessed with diversity and harmonious life. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity),” Prabowo wrote.
Prior to the handshake, President Joko Widodo introduced Prabowo as Indonesia’s 8th president-elect to Pope Francis.
During his speech, Pope Francis conveyed his greetings to Prabowo for his upcoming presidency.
“I send my warmest regards to the president-elect for your upcoming term of service,” Pope Francis said.
The Pope also expressed his admiration for Indonesia’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
“Your country’s motto, ‘unity in diversity,’ literally means ‘different but still one’,” he noted.
As part of the preparations for Pope Francis’ visit, Prabowo arranged for the use of the Maung vehicle for the Pope during his religious service at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan. (RR)
