by Mathìas Hariyadi
13 March 2025, Indonesia and the Holy See celebrated 75 years of their diplomatic relations. This relationship began with the Vatican's recognition of Indonesia’s
independence and sovereignty in 1947.
On 6 July 1947, the Holy See established the Apostolic Nunciature in Jakarta, paving
the way for other European and American nations to follow in recognizing
Indonesia’s sovereignty.
13 March 1950, the Holy See officially formalized diplomatic relations with Indonesia
under the status of the Apostolic Internunciature, which was later elevated to an
Apostolic Nunciature on 6 December 1966.
Fostering international support for Indonesian Independence
The Vatican's recognition of Indonesia’s independence under Pope Pius XII was
significantly influenced by the diplomatic efforts of Mgr. Albertus Soegijapranata SJ,
the first native Indonesian bishop.
On 6 July 1947, Pope Pius XII appointed Mgr. Georges-Marie Joseph Hubert
Ghislain de Jonghe d'Ardoye as the Apostolic Delegate to Indonesia. He later
became the first Vatican Ambassador to Indonesia, while Sukarjo Wiryopranoto
served as Indonesia's first ambassador to the Holy See.
By appointing Msgr. d'Ardoye, the Vatican unequivocally demonstrated its support for
Indonesia’s sovereignty at a time when the country faced the threat of re-colonization
by the Dutch.
Three popes visited Indonesia
Over the past 75 years, three popes have visited Indonesia:
1970: Pope Saint Paul VI emphasizing the freedom of religious practices and securing Catholic congregation under the new Indonesian ruler President Suharto – strong message voiced by the then Pope Paul VI.
Pope Saint John Paul II (1989) to Pres. Suharto: to foster Christianity and promote interfaith dialog and disseminate the spirit of love on the ground.
Pope Francis (2024) publicly fostering faith, fraternity, and compassion.
Likewise, four Indonesian presidents have visited Vatican:
President Sukarno (1956, 1959, 1964) met with three: Pope Pius XII, Pope John XXIII, and Pope Paul VI.
President Suharto (1972): Pope Paul VI.
President Abdurrahman Wahid (2000): Pope John Paul II.
President Megawati Sukarnoputri (2002, 2023, 2025): Pope John Paul II and
Pope Francis.
Indonesian political platform “Pancasila”
Speaking with Dominus Est, Indonesian Ambassador to the Holy See, H.E. Michael
Trias Kuncahyono highlights that Vatican views Indonesia as a unique example of
fostering fraternity in diversity.
Indonesia’s national political platform “Pancasila” and its motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika
(Unity in Diversity) embody the principle of unity among diverse peoples. Pope
Francis echoed this sentiment during his apostolic visit to Indonesia last September
2024.
“The Holy See not only appreciates this but also admires it—especially in an era
when many countries are divided due to ethnic and religious differences,” the Pope
remarked in a speech before then-President Joko Widodo and other dignitaries.
From Pope Pius XII to Pope Francis, the Vatican has consistently expressed
admiration for Pancasila.
Pope Francis emphasized this in his address, stating: “Your national motto, Bhinneka
Tunggal Ika, beautifully describes this diverse reality—a pluralistic society that
remains united as one nation. Harmony in diversity requires everyone to embrace
the spirit of fraternity in the pursuit of the common good.”
Conversely, Indonesia recognizes the Holy See as a sovereign entity without military
power but possessing immense spiritual influence that transcends national borders.
The Holy See employs moral persuasion, theological doctrine, and legal agreements
to shape its global engagement.
Shared values and interests
The Holy See primarily focuses on spiritual, moral, and humanitarian concerns,
including respect for human rights, with a particular emphasis on religious freedom
for all faiths. This shared commitment to human dignity strengthens the bond
between Indonesia and the Vatican.
As of today, at least 1,729 Indonesian religious figures are studying, working, and
serving in various monastic communities across Italy. Many nuns are engaged in
education, elderly care, and orphanage management, while most priests pursue
academic studies.
Common global concerns
According to H.E. Trias Kuncahyono, Indonesia and the Vatican share similar
perspectives on global issues such as peace, human rights, environmental
protection, and food and water security.
They both advocate for the protection of women’s and children’s rights and actively
promote dialogue and diplomacy in conflict areas, including Palestine, Yemen,
Myanmar, Nigeria, and Ukraine.
On the Israel-Palestine conflict, Indonesia and the Vatican share a clear and aligned
stance: they support a two-state solution.
Photo credit: Indonesian Embassy to the Holy See via Titch TV/Sesawi.Net
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