Pope Francis Begins Historic Asia-Pacific Tour in Indonesia

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Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday, kicking off a 12-day Asia-Pacific tour, the longest of his papacy. His visit to the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country focuses on promoting inter-religious dialogue. The 87-year-old pontiff, welcomed in Jakarta, will spend three days emphasizing the importance of religious harmony in a nation where Catholics make up less than three percent of the population.

On Wednesday, Pope Francis will meet with President Joko Widodo and visit the Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia's largest, where he will sign a joint declaration with the mosque's grand imam. The declaration is expected to address issues like violence, conflict, and environmental degradation.

Despite his health challenges, including recent surgeries, the pope remains committed to his mission. His visit highlights the significance of Islamic-Christian dialogue and comes amid concerns about growing religious discrimination in Indonesia. Security has been heightened throughout Jakarta for his visit.