Dutch Envoy Sees Indonesia as Global Voice for Religious Tolerance

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Netherlands has encouraged Indonesia to take a greater role in promoting religious tolerance and freedom of belief on the global stage, highlighting the country's influence as the world's largest Muslim-majority nation.

Dutch Ambassador to the Holy See and Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief Paul Bekkers said Indonesia's geographic position, economic significance, and large population make it an important example for advancing interfaith harmony worldwide.

"Indonesia is the largest Muslim country. Indonesia can play a more active role in promoting the values of tolerance and freedom of religion, both regionally and globally," Bekkers said in Jakarta on Wednesday evening, July 8, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He added that every country faces its own challenges in ensuring freedom of religion and belief. "No country is perfect. Therefore, dialogue must continue in order to strengthen and safeguard freedom of religion and tolerance," he said.

Bekkers explained that his visit to Indonesia from July 4 to 11 is aimed at learning more about how the country manages religious freedom and interfaith relations.

During his visit, he toured Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, and Amurva Bhumi Temple before traveling to Ambon to take part in discussions on freedom of religion and belief. ***