MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Muhammadiyah welcomed the Advisor for Religious Affairs at the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs H.E. Ambassador Jean-Christophe Peaucelle at the Muhammadiyah headquarters, Yogyakarta on Friday, October 25. The meeting aimed to foster deeper understanding and cooperation between the two parties.
President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir welcomed the French delegation and highlighted that Muhammadiyah as a progressive socio-religious organization is open to collaborate with diverse groups.
He emphasized Muhammadiyah role in promoting inclusivity, particularly in eastern regions of Indonesia where Muhammadiyah-run universities have a significant Christian and Catholic student population.
“In eastern Indonesia, Muhammadiyah has become a brother and family to our Christian and Catholic brothers and sisters. Our Muhammadiyah universities in Papua and Nusa Tenggara Timur are predominantly populated by our Christian and Catholic brothers and sisters,” Haedar said.
Haedar also referenced the words of Indonesia’s founding father, Sukarno, who often quoted French philosopher Ernest Renan. He noted Renan’s idea of a nation united by a shared will.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Peaucelle expressed his admiration for Muhammadiyah significant influence on Indonesian Islam. He highlighted the organization’s large membership and its positive contributions to both the Islamic world and the global community.
“We greatly appreciate the role of Muhammadiyah,” Jean said.
Both parties expressed their keen interest in exploring potential collaborations in various fields, including interfaith dialogue and education. This meeting marks a significant step forward in strengthening the relationship between Muhammadiyah and France, and it is expected to pave the way for future cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
