Pope Francis Visits Papua New Guinea, Calls for Peace

During his visit to Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of equitable development and responsible management of the nation's rich natural resources, citing that these resources are 'destined by God for the entire community.' He urged political leaders to prioritize the needs of local populations when distributing resource proceeds and employing workers, highlighting the stark contrast between the country's wealth and the living conditions of many citizens. The pope made a heartfelt appeal for an end to ongoing tribal conflicts, which have resulted in significant violence and displacement, calling for a collective effort to foster peace and civic responsibility. He also addressed the issue of violence against women, urging respect for their rights in a nation where domestic violence and sexual assault rates are alarmingly high. Francis's visit, part of a broader tour, drew attention to the cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea, home to over 800 languages, while stressing the necessity of sustainable development and institutional stability for progress.