Minister Of Religion Yaqut Meets Pope Francis Delivers Invitation From President Jokowi

JAKARTA - Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, Wednesday, and conveyed an invitation from President Joko Widodo to visit Indonesia. in a written statement received in Jakarta, Thursday, June 9. The Minister of Religion said Pope Francis actually planned to come to Indonesia but was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in the midst of the COVID-19 situation which is under control in various parts of the world, including Indonesia, the Minister of Religion has extended an invitation for the Pope to schedule another visit to Indonesia. Yaqut explained that the Ministry of Religion has declared 2022 as the Year of Tolerance. This declaration is a manifestation of the government's strong commitment to always maintain tolerance, whether social, religious, or political. The arrival of Pope Francis to Indonesia can strengthen the message of tolerance and peace among religious adherents, especially in the country. "Indonesia is able to maintain tolerance and peace. between religious adherents, including hundreds of local religious people. We would like to invite His Holiness to see this diversity in Indonesia," he said. The Minister of Religion also conveyed the longing of Catholics to Pope Francis when he came to Indonesia. The Minister of Religion conveyed greetings from the Archbishops and Bishops of Indonesia, they prayed for the health of Pope Francis and hoped to come to Indonesia. maintain peace in Indonesia," said the Minister of Religion.