Pope Francis Visits Indonesia
Indonesia is embracing the Pope’s visit. Beyond rolling out the red carpet upon the 87-year-old Pontiff’s arrival, the ceremonial meetings with President Jokowi and visits to Indonesia’s largest mosque and cathedral other respectful “adjustments” are being made. For e
xample, while the Pope’s major mass was being carried on national networks, they did not interrupt the broadcast, as is usual, with the call to prayer. Instead, networks were advised to scroll a text. One day before the pope landed, various religious organizations of Indonesia’s six recognized religions gathered in Jakarta to express the hope that the pontiff’s activities in Indonesia could be referenced for global interfaith harmony. After resting a day upon his arrival, the Pope visited the Istiqlal Mosque on September 5 and was taken through “tunnel of friendship” built in 2020 to connect the mosque with the National Cathedral. Francis said ““We, the believers from different religious traditions, have one task to do, which is to help everyone walking down this tunnel with their eyes fixed on the light.” He then performed a mass in front of 80,00 at a completely filled at the Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta(Senayan)
US Smart Cities Trade Mission
US Department of Commerce is hosting a November 12-20, 2024 trade mission to Indonesia and the Philippines focused on urban infrastructure led by Under Secretary Marisa Lago. (option to visit Nusantara). The mission follows on the heals of April 2024 reverse trade mission to the US by officials from Nusantara. That program highlighted best practices and technologies, in managing urban infrastructure for energy and digital efficiency. VIEW FLYER WITH RESERVATION and COST INFORMATION
