Alessandro Guarasci – Rome
The Holy See “will not participate in the Peace Council due to its particular nature, which is obviously not the same as that of other states,” stated Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on the sidelines of a meeting with the Italian government, organized to mark the anniversary of the signing of the Lateran Pacts. The meeting was also attended by the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
It is important to provide an answer
Answering journalists’ questions about Italy’s participation in the Peace Council as an observer, the cardinal noted that “there are points that raise some doubts. There are critical issues that would require clarification.” He added that the most important thing is that an attempt is being made to provide an answer. “However, from our perspective, there are some difficulties that should be resolved,” the cardinal added.
“One of the concerns,” the cardinal explained, “is that at the international level, primarily the UN should manage these crisis situations. This is one of the points we have emphasized.”
Pessimism regarding Ukraine
The Secretary of State also expressed concern about the war in Ukraine, a few days before the fourth anniversary of the outbreak of the conflict. Heavy bombardments of energy infrastructure continue in Kyiv and other cities.
According to the cardinal, “there is great pessimism regarding Ukraine. From both sides, there is no real progress towards peace, and it is tragic that after four years we are still at the same point… It is hoped that these dialogues will bring some progress, but there seems to be little reason for hope or expectation.”
