President Of Indonesia Who Has Been To The Vatican, Here's The List

Vatican Image (Wirestock-Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - As the center of the highest spirituality and power of the Catholic Church, the Vatican has long been an important goal for many world leaders, including the President of Indonesia. Due to the moral role and political influence of the Pope, as the leader of more than one billion Catholics around the world, the Vatican plays an important role in international relations. Curious who the president of Indonesia has ever been to the Vatican? Listen to the end, yes!

History records a number of visits by the president of Indonesia to the historic Vatican. These visits are often seen as important moments in diplomatic relations between the two countries. This visit not only improves relations between the two countries but also encourages universal principles, such as religious tolerance and world peace.

History Of Diplomatic Relations Between Indonesia And The Vatican

Diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the Vatican officially began in 1950, shortly after Indonesia's independence. Since then, the two countries have built good communication and cooperation in various fields, especially in interfaith dialogue and humanitarian issues. Although the Vatican is the smallest country in the world, its role in global diplomacy is very significant. The visit of Indonesian leaders to the Vatican has always been considered an important step in maintaining harmonious relations between the Catholic community in Indonesia and the government.

As the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, Indonesia is also known for its diversity, including official recognition of Catholicism. Therefore, relations with the Vatican are very important in strengthening interfaith dialogue and ensuring that religious minority rights in Indonesia are well protected.

President Sukarno's Visit To The Vatican

One of the most historic visits to the Vatican was made by Indonesia's first President, Sukarno, in 1956. This visit was part of Sukarno's international trip to strengthen Indonesia's foreign relations. At that time, Pope Pius XII led the Vatican. The meeting between Sukarno and Pope Pius XII became an important symbol marking the close relationship between Indonesia and the Vatican, which was filled with the spirit of diplomacy and cooperation.

As a leader who supports pluralism and unity amid religious diversity, Sukarno's visit is considered a positive step to show Indonesia's commitment to religious tolerance and protection of minority rights, including Catholics who are recognized religious communities in Indonesia.

President Soeharto's Visit To The Vatican

In 1983, President Suharto also visited the Vatican and met with Pope John Paul II. This meeting took place in a different context from the previous visit, considering that during the Suharto administration, Indonesia faced major challenges related to economic development and political stability.

Suharto's visit to the Vatican strengthened diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the Vatican, especially in strengthening interfaith dialogue within the country. Suharto and Pope John Paul II discussed the importance of peace, interfaith dialogue, and respect for minority rights. This moment demonstrates Indonesia's commitment to maintaining interfaith harmony in the midst of existing diversity.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's Visit

In 2006, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) recorded a historic visit to the Vatican that coincided with the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the Holy See. During his visit, SBY met with Pope Benedict XVI and discussed global issues such as peace, humanity, and interfaith dialogue. This visit is very important considering Indonesia's role in creating world peace and overcoming religious-based conflicts.

SBY and Pope Benedict XVI also highlighted the commitment of the two countries in maintaining religious tolerance in Indonesia. As a country with the largest Muslim population in the world that still respects religious diversity, Indonesia received special attention during this visit. SBY's visit emphasized the harmony between Indonesia and the Vatican and Indonesia's contribution to maintaining international peace.

President Joko Widodo's Visit

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) also visited the Vatican in 2016 as part of his series of international tours. Jokowi's meeting with Pope Francis was an important moment for Indonesian diplomacy. During the meeting, the two discussed global issues, including efforts to make peace in the world, the humanitarian crisis, and the importance of interfaith dialogue.

Jokowi emphasized Indonesia's commitment to maintaining inter-religious harmony and respecting pluralism in the country. This visit also strengthens relations between Indonesia and the Vatican, as well as shows Indonesia's role in promoting global peace.

Also read: The History Of The Two Vatican Whales To Indonesia

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