Vice President Mike Pence's comments at his press conference in Jakarta, Indonesia on Thursday led
Haaretz to run an article titled
Pence's Visit to Indonesia Another Strike in Internal White House Battle Over Islam. In his remarks to the press (
full text), Pence said in part:
As the second and third largest democracies in the world, our two countries share many common values -- including freedom, the rule of law, human rights, and religious diversity.
The United States is proud to partner with Indonesia to promote and protect these values, the birthright of all people....
Later today I’m greatly humbled to have the privilege to visit Indonesia’s national mosque, where I’ll have the opportunity to speak with leaders of many faiths.
And, Mr. President, I’m very much looking forward to that visit and that honor.
As the largest majority Muslim country, Indonesia’s tradition of moderate Islam, frankly, is an inspiration to the world. And we commend you and your people.
In your nation, as in mine, religion unifies -- it doesn’t divide. It gives us hope for a brighter future, and we are all grateful for the great inspiration that Indonesia provides for the world.
