Pope Francis has embarked on a historic journey to Indonesia, marking the first leg of his Asia-Pacific tour. The 87-year-old pontiff arrived in Jakarta, where he will also visit East Timor, Singapore, and Papua New Guinea over the next ten days. This trip is set to be his longest yet, covering nearly 33,000km before his return to Rome on 13 September.
The Pope’s visit carries significant importance as he is expected to address global action on climate change, a cause he has long championed. His arrival in Jakarta, a city susceptible to climate-related challenges like chronic flooding, underscores the urgency of environmental issues in the region.
President Joko Widodo expressed Indonesia’s warm welcome to Pope Francis, highlighting their shared commitment to peace, brotherhood, and prosperity for all. This visit, delayed by the pandemic, has been highly anticipated and holds historical significance for both nations.
Stay tuned for updates on Pope Francis’ forthcoming engagements, including addressing Indonesia’s political leaders and participating in inter-religious meetings, underscoring his message of unity and cooperation in the face of global challenges.