Imam Istiqlal: Signing Declaration With Pope Francis On Humanity

Imam Besar Istiqlal Mosque Nasaruddin Umar when met at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Wednesday (4/9/2024). ANTARA/Mentari Dwi Gayati

JAKARTA - The Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque Nasaruddin Umar said the signing of an agreement with the leader of the World Catholic Church as well as the Vatican Head of State Sri Pope Francis on Thursday was related to humanity. The agenda for signing the declaration will be carried out on the sidelines of cross- faith dialogue with interfaith leaders in Indonesia. "There is a signing between the high priest and the Pope about what is our current concern. Yes, for example, there are humanitarian issues in several places. I think this is a very good time to convey something very important," Nasaruddin said when met at the Presidential Palace. Jakarta, Antara, Wednesday, September 5. Nasaruddin explained that the agreement is expected to have a positive impact on the world, especially in encouraging peace. According to him, the Pope has the same concern about humanity. He also considered the Pope to be a unique figure who sided with oppressed, marginalized and poor groups. In addition to humanity, the high priest said the signing of the agreement also concerns the importance of using religious language in order to care for and maintain the environment. "Because without a healthy environment, it is impossible for a healthy world of humanity to exist as well," said Nasaruddin.

The signing of the agreement was carried out with the Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, and witnessed by interfaith leaders, on the sidelines of the Pope Francis trip agenda to the Istiqlal-Katedral Mosque gathering tunnel on Thursday (5/9). Based on the information gathered, the title of the agreement or declaration to be signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque is "The 2024 Istiqlal Joint Declaration: Implementing Religious Harmony for Humanity." The points of the declaration underscore two things, namely the issue of dehumanization and environmental issues.