Spiritual leader of Catholics and Head of the Vatican, Pope Francis, discussed the latest situation in the Middle East with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
A written statement from the Vatican Press Office noted that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Pope Francis, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Vatican Secretary of State for Relations with States and International Organizations (Minister of Foreign Affairs) Monsignor Paul Richard Gallagher in the Vatican. It was reported that the good relations between the Vatican and Palestine were touched upon during the meeting, and that “the Catholic Church’s significant contribution to Palestinian society, especially in helping the very serious humanitarian situation in Gaza, was emphasized. The wish for a ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate release of all hostages was conveyed.” The statement, which condemned all forms of terrorism, emphasized that “the importance of reaching a two-state solution only through dialogue and diplomacy was emphasized. It was also stated that Jerusalem, which should be protected with a special status, should be ensured to be the meeting and friendship place of the three great monotheistic religions.”
