President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) extended Christmas greetings to all Indonesian Christians celebrating the festive occasion.

"To all Christians in Indonesia, I wish a Merry Christmas," Jokowi stated on his Twitter account @jokowi as reported by ANTARA on Monday.

Jokowi pointed out that the varied diversity of the country is one of God`s blessings on Indonesian people.

President Jokowi has promoted peace and tolerance to uphold Indonesia`s unity in diversity.

Meanwhile, several Christians celebrating Christmas in Jakarta expressed hope that the ethnic, religious, cultural, and linguistic wealth of Indonesia would bring peace and unity.

Febry, a member of the congregation of the Cathedral Church in Jakarta, expressed hope that Indonesia would be able to avoid issues that pose a threat to the country`s unity.

He said the people should uphold the values of mutual respect and tolerance to ensure a peaceful existence.

Rina, another congregation member of the Cathedral Church, was optimistic that the principle of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, or unity in diversity, would be applied in daily life and would also help to realize peace among the people.

Moreover, Father Albertus Hani Rudi Hartoko has invited congregations of the Cathedral Church to respect Indonesia`s diversity.

He said the people should view Indonesia`s diversity as the grace of God

Source: ANTARA