Obama's visit in Indonesia: Istiqlal Mosque Being Religious Tolerance

Fitraya Ramadhanny - detikNews

Jakarta - President Barack Obama appreciates religious tolerance in Indonesia. In Indonesia, he got a few things that became a symbol of tolerance in religious life. One of them, Istiqlal Mosque.

Before delivering public speeches on Campus University of Indonesia, Depok, Obama is taking the time to visit ndonesia Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. "Istiqlal means independence," Obama said while giving a speech at the Hall of UI Campus, Depok, West Java, on Wednesday (11/10/2010).

The name of the mosque, according to Obama, has shown that messages are delivered to Indonesia. Where is liberty or freedom of religion.

"Istiqlal was designed by architect Christian. There's the philosophy of Pancasila. When Christians visiting mosques or Muslims come to church is a manifestation of tolerance. Living with tolerance," Obama said.

Obama delivered, such as democracy and development, religion was also important for Indonesia. This is evident from the diversity of religions and beliefs in Indonesia.

He also emphasized that the U.S. never judge a religion. Therefore, the U.S. actively supports peace in Afghanistan. The U.S. also supports the formation of government in Iraq and the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

"No one claims the U.S. in terms of religion, especially Islam," he continued.

Muslim Stepfather

Islam is not something alien to Obama, because his stepfather, Lolo Sutoro is a Muslim. "I am a Muslim stepfather. Here all religions are respected," said Obama, who greeted the invited guests applauded.

He added that the religious spirit in the Indonesian constitution. "This is a characteristic that inspiring," he said.