WNAM REPORT: Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque Nasaruddin Umar stated that he and Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, will sign a declaration on Thursday (September 5) spotlighting humanitarian issues currently riddling the world.
According to the plan, the Istiqlal Joint Declaration 2024: Solidifying Interfaith Concord for Humanity will be inked when the Vatican sovereign attends an interfaith dialogue scheduled at Istiqlal Mosque.
“I and the Pope will sign a declaration on matters of shared concern, such as humanitarian issues that are currently plaguing various places. I believe this is the right time to voice things of chief importance,” Umar remarked at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday.
The grand imam noted that the joint declaration is expected to bring positive impacts to the world, driving people to continue to pursue peace.
Umar said he believed that he and Pope Francis were on the same page about humanity while regarding the esteemed religious leader as a unique figure who relentlessly advocated the interests of the suppressed, marginalized, and poor.
Apart from humanitarian issues, Umar elucidated that the declaration will also echo the importance of utilizing religious teachings and perspectives to nurture and preserve the environment.
“It is because, without a healthy environment, there will be no healthy world for humans,” he expounded.
In addition to joining the interfaith dialogue and signing the joint declaration, Pope Francis is also keen to pass through the Tunnel of Friendship that connects Istiqlal Mosque to the Jakarta Cathedral.
Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday (September 3) and will remain in the country to carry out various official activities before leaving for Papua New Guinea on September 6.
In addition to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, the Pope, currently on his Asia-Pacific apostolic journey, will also visit Timor-Leste and Singapore.
