75 Years of Indonesia-Vatican Relations: Joint Book 'Together Navigating the Times' Officially Launched

To mark the historical milestone of 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the Holy See, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) to the Holy See launched a book titled Bersama Mengarungi Zaman (Insieme Attraverso I Tempi) in Rome on Thursday (26/3). The event, held at the KBRI Vatican office, was attended by diplomatic officials, priests, and nuns.

The book was symbolically handed over by the Indonesian Ambassador to the Holy See, Michael Trias Kuncahyono, to Mgr. John D. Putzer, who represented the Vatican Foreign Minister, Monsignor Paul Richard Gallagher.

Ambassador Trias emphasised that the book serves as an important record of the long-standing friendship that began in 1947. He highlighted the vital role of the Vatican in Indonesia’s history of independence.

“The Holy See was the first European country to recognise Indonesia’s independence. This recognition encouraged other European countries to extend similar recognition to the Republic of Indonesia,” said Trias.

Meanwhile, Mgr. John Putzer stated that the 75-year relationship is not merely a diplomatic success but tangible proof of Pope Francis’s message on diversity.

He recalled the Pope’s admiration during his visit to the Silaturahim Tunnel connecting the Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta in September 2024.

“Indonesia demonstrates and proves that differences should not be a source of conflict but a path to connect with one another. This message is highly relevant to the current world,” stressed Mgr. Putzer.

In agreement, Ambassador Trias affirmed Indonesia’s commitment to continue cooperating with the Vatican in promoting tolerance and dialogue for world peace.

This hardcover, full-colour book is compiled in three languages: Indonesian, Italian, and English. Published by Palmerah Syndicate in collaboration with the Indonesian Catholic Journalists Association (PWKI), it compiles writings from prominent figures such as Foreign Minister Sugiono, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Father Budi Subanar SJ, and Ambassador Trias himself.

In addition to articles, the book presents historical visual documentation, including visits by three Popes to Indonesia—Pope Paul VI (1970), Pope John Paul II (1989), and Pope Francis (2024)—as well as visits by five Indonesian Presidents to the Vatican.

“May this book serve as a source of inspiration to continue the spirit of friendship between Indonesia and the Holy See for decades to come,” concluded Ambassador Trias.