VATICAN CITY, NOV. 12, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI says Indonesia is a key nation for promoting interreligious dialogue, given that it has the largest Muslim population of any country.
The Pope affirmed this today when he received in audience Indonesia's new ambassador to the Holy See, Suprapto Martosetomo.
The Holy Father told the ambassador: "I deeply appreciate your reaffirmation of the government’s position of condemning terrorist violence, under whatever pretext it occurs, as a criminal offense which, by its contempt for human life and freedom, undermines the very foundations of society.
"This is particularly the case when the holy name of God is invoked as a justification for such acts. The Church at every level, 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."
The Pontiff noted Indonesia's role in promoting interreligious cooperation.
"Dialogue, respect for the convictions of others, and collaboration in the service of peace are the surest means of securing social concord," Benedict XVI said. "These are among the noblest goals which can bring together men and women of good will, and, in a particular way, all those who worship the one God who is the Creator and beneficent Lord of the whole human family.
"A promising development in this regard is represented by the growing instances of cooperation between Christians and Muslims in Indonesia, aimed particularly at the prevention of ethnic and religious conflicts in the most troubled areas."
"As Indonesia now sits as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council," the Pope continued, "I take the present occasion to express my confidence that the principles which inspire your own national policies of pacification, dialogue and tolerance will enable Indonesia to make a fruitful contribution to the solution of global conflicts and the promotion of a peace based on international solidarity and concern for the integral development of individuals and peoples."
ZE07111203 - 2007-11-12
Permalink: http://www.zenit.org/article-20982?l=english
Pope: Indonesia Is Key for Interreligious Dialogue
Pontiff Receives in Audience New Envoy
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