Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said Indonesia’s proposals on ecotheology and religious diplomacy presented at an international interfaith meeting in Assisi, Italy, had attracted the attention of the organizers.
He said the organizers had praised Indonesia’s speech and planned to follow up on the proposals at future meetings.
“Our statements on ecotheology and religious diplomacy will also become a major theme at a future meeting,” Nasaruddin said in a statement here on Friday.
The minister previously attended a high-level session of the Sant’Egidio International Meeting for Peace in Assisi, Italy.
The Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque said participants were interested not only in the idea of religious diplomacy but also in Pancasila, Indonesia’s state philosophy, as a foundation for national life amid diversity.
He said his speaking slot, originally scheduled for seven minutes, was extended to around 30 minutes as participants sought to learn more about Indonesia’s experience.
“They were interested and asked for an explanation of Pancasila. Pancasila can serve not only as a set of Indonesian values but also as a set of universal values,” he said.
Several interfaith cooperation initiatives previously developed through Istiqlal Mosque also attracted interest for further follow-up. He cited April next year as one potential opportunity to continue discussions on the initiatives.
During the visit, the minister also met with the Vatican’s foreign minister. They discussed relations between Indonesia and the Vatican, particularly efforts to strengthen cooperation and promote universal humanitarian values.
Nasaruddin said the Vatican authorities view Indonesia as a country with a large Muslim population and valuable experience in maintaining moderate religious life.
One common ground between Indonesia and the Vatican is their commitment to defending oppressed communities regardless of their religious backgrounds.
“Anyone who is oppressed must be defended, regardless of their religious affiliation,” he said.
Nasaruddin expressed hope that the positive responses received during the visit would lead to concrete cooperation in interfaith dialogue, education, and efforts to strengthen religious diplomacy.
“And I think that is a very good connection between Indonesia and the Vatican,” the minister said.
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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