Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas described the visit of the Grand Imam of the Nabawi Mosque (Prophet's Mosque) in Medina as a key moment to strengthen Indonesia-Saudi Arabia relations.
"I am confident that relations between our two countries, governments, and peoples are going very well. God willing, we will continue to maintain these good relations," Qoumas stated on Tuesday.
Grand Imam Sheikh Ahmad bin Ali Al-Hudhayfi is expected to stay in Indonesia until October 11, during which he will deliver the Friday prayer sermon at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque. He is also scheduled to meet President Joko Widodo and representatives of Muslim organizations during his visit.
Qoumas expressed Indonesia's honor in hosting Al-Hudhayfi. He also extended his warm regards to King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman through the Grand Imam.
The minister praised Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Faisal Al-Amudi, referring to him as a "brother" and highlighting his effective efforts in fostering bilateral cooperation. Meanwhile, Ambassador Al-Amudi noted that Al-Hudhayfi's visit could be considered a "state visit," as the Grand Imam brought a message from the Saudi King.
Baca juga: Media shows Indonesia's peaceful image during Pope's visit: govt
"The visit reflects King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman's deep attention to the strategic relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia," Al-Amudi said.
King Salman also praised the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs for its extensive collaboration with Saudi authorities in Islamic affairs and proselytization, the ambassador added.
Baca juga: Mohammed bin Salman invites Prabowo to visit Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, Grand Imam Al-Hudhayfi emphasized the shared commitment of Indonesia and Saudi Arabia to religious moderation, which was one of the key reasons for his visit.
"We bear a great responsibility to spread the correct religious teachings, as conveyed by Prophet Muhammad, as a universal divine message," he stressed.
Nabawi Grand Imam's visit strengthens Indonesia-Saudi ties: minister
Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas (right) speaks to the Grand Imam of the Saudi Arabia's Nabawi Mosque (Prophet's Mosque), Syaikh Ahmad bin Ali Al-Hudhayfi, during their meeting in Jakarta on October 8, 2024. (ANTARA/HO-Kemenag/nbl)
