Megawati Is Set To Meet With Pope Francis To Discuss Humanitarian Missions For The World

ANTARA FOTO/Monang Sinaga/nym

Megawati Is Set To Meet With Pope Francis To Discuss Humanitarian Missions For The World

Tuesday, 04 Feb 2025

The fifth President of Indonesia and Chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), Megawati Soekarnoputri, is scheduled to attend and speak at the World Leaders Summit on Children's Rights in Vatican City on Monday, February 3, 2025.

Ahmad Basarah, the Head of the Foreign Affairs Division of the PDIP Central Board, explained that Megawati received an invitation from the World Leaders Summit committee to be a speaker at the event some time ago. "This forum will be attended by world leaders and international NGOs. The leader of the Catholic community, Pope Francis, will also address the forum. During this event, Mrs. Megawati will share her insights on the issues being discussed," stated Basarah in Rome on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

"Mrs. Megawati will convey a message regarding humanitarian concerns, particularly in relation to children's rights in the present day. Her perspective, along with those of other panelists, is crucial in demonstrating support for children's rights," elaborated Basarah.

According to information from the committee, following the opening by Pope Francis, the first panel session will commence.

In addition to Megawati, other panelists will include Queen Rania al-Abdullah of Jordan, Grand Imam of Al Azhar Ahmed El-Tayeb from Egypt, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, and Gambian Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara. The panel will be moderated by Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

The PDIP faction leader in the People's Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia further noted that, in addition to attending the World Leaders Summit, Megawati is also expected to have a private meeting with Pope Francis.

"The meeting plans have been finalized by the protocol of the Holy See," added Basarah.

According to Basarah, Megawati's presence is significant as she comes in her capacity as a juror for the Zayed Award, initiated by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb.

"Mrs. Megawati will meet with the Pope and is likely to participate in a panel alongside Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb. Both are influential figures on the global stage. The committee is still awaiting confirmation of the Grand Imam's attendance," Basarah mentioned.