Antonella Palermo – Vatican
“The position of the Holy See is always in favor of avoiding any violence, that is obvious, and therefore we cannot accept this kind of event,” said Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, responding to a question about the actions of ICE officers in Minnesota (USA) that led to the death of two American citizens. “Difficulties, problems, contradictions are resolved in other ways,” added the cardinal, agreeing with the statement of the American bishops who considered this situation “unacceptable.”
The Question of the Peace Council
The Secretary of State also referred to an open letter addressed to him the day before by the community of “priests against genocide.” This letter called on the Holy See not to participate in the Peace Council for the reconstruction of Gaza, which is being formed at the initiative of Donald Trump. When asked whether the Vatican intends to join it, the hierarch replied: “One must always respond after a moment… give us a moment to consider it.” He also assured that he understood the concerns arising around the topic. He then reiterated what he had previously told the press on the same subject: “In connection with this proposal, there are certain critical points that must be taken into account when formulating a response. A response has not yet been given, but I believe that these problems related to this plan cannot be forgotten.”
Greenland – moving towards a solution
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who returned two days ago from Denmark, where he participated in celebrations in honor of St. Oscar – the first evangelizer of these lands – confirmed that he met with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, as planned during the visit. The politician presented him with the situation related to Greenland. “He told me about his contacts in Washington, which were very well received. I then also heard comments, especially from Lutheran bishops, but also from other people, who said that Danish public opinion was very pleased with the positions taken. Without going into details, I believe we are moving towards a solution, towards an agreement. I don’t know the exact terms now,” he noted, adding, “but it seemed to me that the foreign minister was also rather positive as a result of these discussions. Let’s hope so.”
