Vatican City, Nov 12, 2007 / 08:36 am
Upon receiving the new ambassador of Indonesia to the Holy See, Suprapto Martosemoto, the Holy Father praised Indonesia for its “commitment to pursue policies aimed at advancing the noble goals of democracy and social harmony enshrined in the Constitution."
Addressing the diplomat in English, the Pope began his talk by praising Indonesia for its “determination, which calls for sacrifice ... and the cooperation of all political and social groups, is indispensable for overcoming the forces of polarization and conflict, carrying forward the renewal of economic life and consolidating a just democratic order in full respect for the rights of every individual and community.”
Noting that one of the current “most serious threats to the ideal of national unity” in the country is “the phenomenon of international terrorism”, the Pontiff praised the Indonesian government’s position which condemns “terrorist violence, under whatever pretext it occurs,” pointing out that “this happens in particular when the holy name of God is invoked as a justification for such acts.”
The Holy Father continued, “The Church, ... in fidelity to the teaching of her Master, unequivocally condemns the manipulation of religion for political ends, while urging the application of international humanitarian law in every aspect of the fight against terrorism.”