JAKARTA: Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister and Director General for Information and Public Diplomacy Siti Nugraha Mauluddin, in a diplomatic exchange on Thursday, expressed her commitment to fostering religious inclusion and interfaith dialogue between Pakistan and Indonesia.
During discussions with a Pakistani delegation comprising intellectuals and scholars, she emphasized the fraternal bond between the both countries as fellow Muslim nations.
She highlighted the potential for joint efforts in promoting peace in South and Southeast Asia, with far-reaching positive impacts on international level.
The deputy minister underlined the substantial student exchange programmes between the two nations and expressed interest in organizing a trilateral dialogue involving Pakistan, Indonesia, and Afghanistan.
Leading the Pakistani delegation, Chairman of the National Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Authority Khurshid Ahmad Nadeem affirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue and harmony.
Pakistani religious scholars’ contribution to Islamic, Quranic sciences appreciated
He acknowledged the remarkable contribution of Pakistani religious scholars to Islamic and Quranic sciences, facilitating the international dissemination of the true message of divine command.
He also mentioned the educational relations between Indonesia and Pakistan, citing Indonesian students studying at Jamia Binnoria Karachi, led by Mufti Nauman Naeem, who was part of the diplomatic visit.
In a one-on-one session titled ‘Enhancing Religious Moderation and Interfaith Dialogue,’ Siti highlighted Indonesia’s unique diversity, with a population of 280 million, making it the world’s 3rd-largest democracy.
She spotlighted Indonesia’s successful management of its diverse society through the principles of moderation and acceptance called ‘Panchashila,’ derived from Islam and forming the foundation of the country.
The Pakistani delegation appreciated Indonesia’s efforts in presenting a model of religious moderation and shared experiences of Pakistani religious scholars contributing to Islamic and Quranic sciences.
Acknowledging existing sectarian aspects, the delegation expressed optimism that shared platforms and enhanced dialogues could overcome such challenges.
