RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Catholic bishops from across Asia, members of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC), expressed their admiration for the openness and harmony between religious communities in Indonesia. They consider Indonesia a place of learning in fostering interfaith brotherhood.

This appreciation was expressed during a visit to the "Silaturahim" (Friendship Tunnel) and a meeting at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta on Sunday (July 26, 2026), with Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar. Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Special Envoy of Pope Leo XIV to the 12th Plenary Session of the FABC, assessed that Indonesia exemplifies open and inclusive religious institutions.

Cardinal Oswald said they learned from Indonesia how religious institutions can become places of dedicated service and embrace all parties. He emphasized that the value of brotherhood has been taught by various religions, citing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's view that the basic teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Bible share the same goal of guiding humanity towards goodness.

He also quoted the Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, who reminded them that the Quran and the Bible convey a consistent message of unity. He stated that amidst increasing conflict and violence in various parts of the world, religious leaders have a moral responsibility to be role models for dialogue and peace.

Cardinal Oswald added that the late Pope Francis always reminded Asian bishops to continue working for peace and harmony. He said the significant influence of religious leaders in shaping society's perspectives must be used to strengthen brotherhood and humanity.

Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, took the opportunity to encourage the public to build a new paradigm in interfaith relations, moving from a spirit of tolerance to a spirit of unity. He considered unity a stronger foundation for maintaining harmony amidst diversity, while emphasizing the importance of real collaboration and the involvement of the younger generation as drivers of unity to prevent the emergence of disintegration.

The 2026 FABC XII Plenary Session in Jakarta provides a strategic platform for Asian Catholic Church leaders to strengthen global collaboration for peace and social justice. The Ministry of Religious Affairs is using this momentum to reinforce Indonesia's position as the epicenter of interfaith harmony and unity in the eyes of the world.