Pope Francis Calls on Polish Leaders to Welcome People on the Move

On the occasion of his first visit to Central Europe and of the 31st World Youth Day held in Kraków, Poland, Pope Francis called on Polish leaders to welcome refugees and migrants fleeing despair, conflicts and violations of their basic rights.

In a speech celebrating the role of history for the wealth of humanity and spirituality, the Pope acknowledged the importance of tradition and heritage in establishing a productive dialogue between nations.

Pope Francis also urged to develop new paths of international cooperation, founded on compassion and wisdom, to end the same conflicts causing so much suffering to the people on the move. “Needed is a spirit of readiness to welcome those fleeing from wars and hunger, and solidarity with those deprived of their fundamental rights, including the right to profess one’s faith in freedom and safety,” Pope Francis remarked.

Read Pope Francis’ speech on the Official Vatican Network website.