Pope Francis on Thursday urged rich countries to take responsibility for the “most vulnerable.”
Drawing on the words of one of his predecessors, St. John Paul II, the pontiff reiterated the need for solidarity among nations, especially in supporting poorer countries, Vatican News reported.
During his visit to Luxembourg, the Pope emphasised that wealth comes with the obligation to help those in need and to reduce the number of people forced to emigrate. In the first official speech of his eight-hour visit, Francis said wealth includes a responsibility to the “most vulnerable.”
The pontiff emphasised Luxembourg’s role as a model of “co-operation” and peace in Europe. He praised the country’s commitment to democracy and “human dignity,” urging it to continue to promote international co-operation.
Luxembourg, with its multicultural history, can set an example in integrating migrants and refugees, he emphasised.
In light of ongoing conflicts, including Israeli actions in Gaza, the pontiff urged world leaders to pursue peace through negotiations and honest compromises, reminding them that true peace is built on “solidarity.”
The pontiff also spoke to a large number of faithful at the Vatican on Wednesday, calling for prayers for those suffering in all world conflicts, including the Middle East, Ukraine, Myanmar and Sudan.
