Defense Minister and President-elect Prabowo Subianto shared a photo of himself shaking hands with Pope Francis at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, September 4.
In his post, Prabowo extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guest, expressing pride in Indonesia’s diversity and harmony.
“Accompanying President RI Joko Widodo in welcoming His Holiness Pope Francis, the Supreme Leader of the Catholic Church and Head of State of the Vatican, to Merdeka Palace, Jakarta. Welcome to Indonesia, Your Holiness Pope Francis. Indonesia is a country blessed with diversity and harmonious life. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity),” Prabowo wrote.
Before the handshake, President Joko Widodo introduced Prabowo as Indonesia’s 8th president-elect to Pope Francis.
In his speech, Pope Francis extended his greetings to Prabowo for his upcoming term as president.
“I send my warmest regards to the president-elect for your upcoming term of service,” Pope Francis said.
The Pope also expressed his admiration for Indonesia’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
“Your country’s motto, ‘unity in diversity’, literally means ‘different but still one’,” he remarked.
As part of preparations for Pope Francis’ visit, Prabowo has arranged for the use of the Maung vehicle for the Pope during his religious service at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan.