RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Asian Catholic leaders praised Indonesia's religious harmony during the A Pilgrim Church Listening to Asia press conference in Jakarta on Monday, July 20, 2026. They highlighted Pancasila and interfaith dialogue as valuable examples for Asia's diverse societies.

The remarks were delivered ahead of the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC). The gathering brings together more than 120 cardinals and bishops from 22 bishops' conferences and jurisdictions across Asia.

FABC Vice President and Head of the Commission for Synodality, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, said Indonesia's shared values strengthen harmony among different faith communities. He noted that Pancasila reflects universal principles that unite people despite religious differences.

The following is his statement during the press conference.

"You know, in the Pancasila, I realized there is a common valuing of human dignity, of social justice, of faith in God. I said, wow, these are beautiful. So there are more elements that unite us than divide us, really. And if we focus on that, I think our relationship will be much improved among faith communities." David said.

The assembly will also demonstrate Indonesia's interfaith spirit through a symbolic visit to the Istiqlal Mosque. Participants will cross the Tunnel of Friendship after the Closing Mass at Jakarta Cathedral.

Secretary General of the Indonesian Catholic Bishops' Conference (KWI), Bishop Adrianus Sunarko, said the visit represents strong relations among religious communities. He added that the symbolic journey reflects Indonesia's commitment to peaceful coexistence.

"At the end of the Assembly, we will visit the Istiqlal Mosque. And following the closing mass in the cathedral, we will go via the Tunnel of Friendship, Terowongan Silaturahmi. I think this is very important symbolic about the good relationship with Islam especially, but also with other religions." Sunarko added.

The 12th FABC Plenary Assembly runs until July 26 under the theme The Call to Synodal Conversion and the Mission to be Bridges and Bridge Builders in Asia. The meeting discusses interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, social justice, climate challenges, and the Church's mission across Asia.