“I hope,” said the Pope in Spanish, “that my visit will help to highlight the importance of interreligious dialogue, mutual understanding and fraternal cooperation, especially in the service of the poor, those most in need, and in the service of peace.”
Vatican City (AsiaNews) – Pope Francis addressed the Thai people in a video message a few days before the start of his visit to that country on 20 November until 23 November.
During his stay, the pontiff will speak about interfaith dialogue, especially with Buddhism, as well as living together in peace.
“I hope,” said the Pope in Spanish, “that my visit will help to highlight the importance of interreligious dialogue, mutual understanding and fraternal cooperation, especially in the service of the poor, those most in need, and in the service of peace.”
“I also hope to strengthen the bonds of friendship that we share with many Buddhist brothers and sisters who bear eloquent witness to the values of tolerance and harmony that are so characteristic of your people.”
The Pope noted that “Thailand has worked hard to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence, not only among its people but throughout the Southeast Asian region.
“In this world that too often experiences discord, division and exclusion, this commitment to forge a unity respectful of the dignity of every man, woman and child can serve as an inspiration for the efforts that people of goodwill around the world are making to promote a great, true development of our human family in solidarity, in justice and in living in peace.
Finally, the Pope also mentioned during his stay, he will meet Thailand’s catholic community and “encourage them in their faith”.
Thailand will be the first leg of a two-country trip that will also take him to Japan on 23-26 November.