US president affirms respect for Islam in Indonesia.

Barack Obama: Thank you for this wonderful welcome. Thank you to the people of Jakarta and thank you to the people of Indonesia. Pulang kampung nih [This is my homecoming].

Barack Obama: Across an archipelago that contains some of God’s most beautiful creations, islands rising above an ocean named for peace, people choose to worship God as they please. Islam flourishes, but so do other faiths.

Arriving in the country that was his homeland as a child, the president and First Lady Michelle Obama were warmly welcomed by leaders and citizens alike as they visited the Istiqlal mosque, a house of worship for thousands of Muslims. The president later gave a keynote speech at the University of Indonesia, where he reiterated a message conveyed earlier of clear respect for the Islamic faith as he stated, “America is not and never will be at war with Islam.” The president also lauded Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, for her spirit of acceptance and inclusiveness. Continuing his Asia tour, the US president went on to Seoul, South Korea, where he is attending the G20 meeting.

Your Excellency, our respectful accolades for your cordial visit highlighting respect for Islam and all faiths. Blessed be such noble values in fostering peace among nations and throughout the world.