Jakarta. The Vatican has released a special-edition postage stamp to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the Holy See, with an official launch at the Vatican Museums on Friday.

The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations; Emilio Nappa, Secretary General of the Governorate of Vatican City State; and Michael Trias Kuncahyono, Indonesia’s Ambassador to the Holy See. Diplomats from multiple countries, Vatican officials, representatives of the Vatican Museums, and Indonesian priests and nuns were also present.

A Design that Unites Two Nations
Designed by Patrizio Daniele, the stamp features the emblem of the Holy See and Vatican City on the left and Indonesia’s national emblem, Garuda Pancasila, on the right. Between them is an illustration of a dove in flight, symbolizing peace. Below the artwork is the inscription “1950 – 2025,” marking the length of diplomatic ties.

A pair of ribbons -- red-and-white for Indonesia and yellow-and-white for the Vatican -- connects the two emblems. According to Ambassador Trias, the design reflects shared values upheld by both states: humanity, social justice, unity in diversity, and mutual respect. The stamp is priced at 3.35 euros.

A Relationship Rooted in Shared Values
In his remarks, Archbishop Gallagher recounted the historical reasoning behind the Holy See’s recognition of Indonesia’s independence in 1947. He said the Vatican has consistently supported the right of nations to self-determination, human dignity, and peace.

He stressed that the Holy See’s diplomacy prioritizes dialogue, human rights, and religious freedom rather than economic or military interests. Gallagher also described Indonesia as a strategic partner in advancing peace and social justice, noting that the principles of Pancasila align strongly with the values championed by the Holy See, including tolerance, solidarity, and unity.

He also cited Pope Francis’s 2024 visit to Indonesia, recalling the pontiff’s message that harmony in diversity requires a “spirit of fraternity for the common good.”

Ambassador Trias thanked the Vatican for the commemorative issue, calling the stamp not only a postal instrument but also a historical marker and a tool of cultural diplomacy. He said the release serves as a symbolic reminder of the close friendship between Indonesia and the Holy See over the past 75 years.

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