Megawati Meets Paus Fransiskus, Friendship in Humanitarian Diplomacy

TIMESINDONESIA, VATIKAN – The 5th President of Indonesia and Chairwoman of PDI Perjuangan, Megawati Soekarnoputri, met with Paus Fransiskus at the Vatican. The meeting carried a message of brotherhood and meaningful gifts.

In a warm and heartfelt meeting, Megawati Soekarnoputri met with the leader of the Catholic Church, Paus Fransiskus, at his private residence, Casa Santa Marta, Vatican, on Friday (7/2/2025).

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She was accompanied by her daughter, Puan Maharani, who is also the Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, along with Mohamad Rizki Pratama, Ahmad Basarah, and PDIP Treasurer Olly Dondokambey. This meeting reaffirmed the close relationship between Indonesia and the Holy See.

Despite his health condition not being fully recovered, Paus Fransiskus welcomed Megawati with warmth.

"Even though he was not feeling well, the Paus still made time to meet with Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri out of respect for the 5th President of Indonesia, who is also the daughter of Indonesia’s Proclaimer, Bung Karno," said Ahmad Basarah after the meeting.

Paus Fransiskus, known for his humility, smiled warmly when Megawati conveyed greetings from the Indonesian people, especially Catholics who admire him and hope to meet him in person one day. This moment was not just a diplomatic meeting but a realization of humanity that goes beyond religion and national borders.

A Symbol of Love and Unity

During the meeting, Megawati presented a special gift to Paus Fransiskus—a painting of the Virgin Mary, measuring 176 cm x 120 cm. The painting depicts the Virgin Mary wearing a white mantilla veil and a red kebaya, symbolizing elegance and the harmony between culture and spirituality.

Paus Fransiskus looked touched as he received the gift. "The Paus was very happy to receive this present and thanked Ibu Megawati and Mbak Puan Maharani," Basarah continued.

For Paus Fransiskus, the painting was not just a gift but also a sincere tribute from the Indonesian people.

In addition to the painting, Puan Maharani also presented a traditional Indonesian batik shadow puppet outfit as a gift. Appreciating the gesture, the Paus called the Indonesian people beautiful people, expressing his deep impression of their warmth and hospitality.

A Historic Moment: A Meeting at the Paus’s Private Residence

Ahmad Basarah highlighted an important fact about this meeting—it was the first time Paus Fransiskus had received a foreign guest at his private residence.

This marked a special honor for Megawati Soekarnoputri, as Paus is known to be very selective about his guests.

Beyond the conversation, the moment was also captured in photographs, showing the emotional connection between Megawati and Paus Fransiskus.

In one of the photos sent by Father Marcin to Basarah, Megawati is seen gently holding the Paus’s hand, a gesture of deep respect and affection.

Building Friendship Beyond Differences

According to TIMES Indonesia, Megawati’s meeting with Paus Paus Fransiskus was not just a diplomatic agenda, but also a true reflection of international friendship based on humanity, care, and respect for diversity.

The Pope’s humility in welcoming guests despite his health condition, along with Megawati’s sincerity in bringing a message of solidarity from Indonesia, set an example that politics and humanity can go hand in hand with dignity.

In a world full of challenges and differences, this moment serves as a reminder that unity and solidarity can bridge all divides.

Indonesia and the Vatican, each with their unique cultures, met at a single point: love and empathy. A message that should continue to be echoed in a world that is becoming increasingly fragmented.

Through this meeting, Megawati not only carried the name of her country but also brought the message that Indonesia is a nation that upholds humanitarian values and tolerance. As she always emphasizes, a great nation is one that embraces differences in harmony. (*)

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