In the border region between Russia and Western Kazakhstan, celebrations resume after pandemic under the banner of St George the Victorious and war symbolism. The pilgrimage commemorates the rebirth of Russia after the Tatar-Mongolian yoke and the integration of European and Asian Russians.
Undisturbed, the chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights continues his campaign of persecution against Christian educational establishments. After threatening to arrest the bishop of Jabalpur, he recently targeted a children’s centre in Katni. The BJP-ruled state goes to the polls in November and now children are used as a political pawn by those who should instead protect them.
Two unidentified hitmen gunned down Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin. Despite some improvement as reported by Reporters Without Borders, press freedom in the Philippines is still under threat. Radio broadcasters are particularly affected.
Fearing the place’s symbolism, the authorities remove road signs from the site of last October’s unprecedented protest against Xi Jinping, on the eve of the Party congress. Meanwhile, a fair showcasing products from mainland China is set to open at Hong Kong’s Victoria Park, where a vigil honouring the victims of the 4 June 1989 massacre was held annually until 2020.
South Korea hosted the first Korea-Pacific Islands Summit, which provided an opportunity to discuss sustainable development and maritime affairs. Given its geopolitical and economic importance, the region is increasingly interesting to the Yoon administration.
Francis dedicated today's general audience in St Peter's Square entirely to the Jesuit apostle of China. May the example of the young people from Ukraine and Russia living together as brothers and sisters in the Italian citadel of Rondine "arouse intentions of peace also in those who have political responsibilities".
