STATEMENT FROM THE APOSTOLIC NUNCIATURE

POPE FRANCIS’ APPEAL AND PRAYER

FOR PEACE IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS

On numerous occasions Pope Francis has appealed and called for prayers for peace amongst all Nations in the South Caucasus. Pope Francis and the Holy See are committed to the cause of peace. The Apostolic Nunciature in Georgia and Armenia promptly publishes such appeals on its website, Facebook, and twitter account (see appeals here www.vaticange.org ).

The Papal appeals for peace and prayer were internationally welcomed, well understood and echoed by the Catholic Hierarchy in Georgia and Armenia, Conferences of Catholic Bishops worldwide, including the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and by people of good will.

Last 11 October, Pope Francis’ words on the armed conflict in the South Caucasus were as follows: “I appreciate that there has been a ceasefire agreement between Armenia Azerbaijan for humanitarian reasons, in view of reaching a substantial peace accord. Although the truce appears too fragile, I encourage that it be taken up again and I express my participation in sorrow for the loss of human lives, for the suffering endured, as well as for the destruction of homes and places of worship. I pray and invite prayer for the victims and for all those whose lives are in danger.” (see appeal here https://bit.ly/35cCU0X and https://bit.ly/378GsDM )

It is unfortunate that the clear, unambiguous, and consistent message of Peace of His Holiness has been misrepresented or, in some cases, miscommunicated in such a way as to cause confusion.

It is the hope of this Apostolic Nunciature that Pope Francis’ message of prayer and deep concern may join the efforts of many who are working for peace amongst peoples of the South Caucasus.

Tbilisi, 15 October, 2020