Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV appealed for peace and dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan after recent clashes between the two neighbouring countries. Speaking during the Angelus prayer on Sunday, Pope expressed concern over the fighting and urged both sides to return to talks.
Tensions escalated earlier this week after Pakistan accused Afghanistan of sheltering insurgents. Both countries reportedly carried out strikes across their shared border, raising fears of further violence.
Pope prayed for harmony and reconciliation, asking people around the world to join in prayer for peace.
“Let us pray together that concord may prevail in all conflicts in the world,” he said. “Only peace, a gift of God, can heal the wounds among peoples.”
He also referred to ongoing conflicts elsewhere, including tensions in the Middle East following attacks involving Israel, the United States and Iran, which have heightened regional instability.
During his address, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with people affected by severe flooding in Brazil’s Minas Gerais state.
He prayed for those who died, families who lost their homes and rescue workers assisting victims.
At least 46 people were killed after torrential rains triggered destructive flooding in the southeastern state. Many of the victims were reported in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, located about 300 kilometres north of Rio de Janeiro.
Pope concluded by assuring those suffering that they are not forgotten and remain in the prayers of the Church.