Cardinal Parolin Calls for Peace in the Middle East During Meeting with Regional Nuncios

Amman, Jordan, January 14, 2025: Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin presided over a meeting with Apostolic Nuncios from several Middle Eastern countries in the Jordanian capital of Amman on January 13. During the session, the attendees expressed a unified call for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East “on every front” and stressed the urgent need for peace in the war-torn region. Parolin’s visit to Amman also coincided with his participation in the consecration of the Church of the Baptism of Jesus, located on the banks of the Jordan River, on Friday.

The Holy See issued a statement following the meeting, confirming the presence of papal representatives from all the seven GCC countries as well as from Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen.

“During the meeting, the ongoing crises in the region, the political and ecclesial situation in each country, signs of hope in some areas, and the severe humanitarian conditions affecting populations most impacted by conflicts were discussed,” the Holy See statement read.

It further noted that “it is hoped that the ceasefire on every front will come soon and that the Middle East can become a land of peace, where Christians remain an essential component for fraternal coexistence among religions and for the progress of their respective countries.”

In addition to the meeting, Cardinal Parolin also had a phone conversation with Lebanon’s newly-elected president, Joseph Aoun, who took office on January 9. “During the cordial phone call, His Eminence congratulated President Aoun on his election to the Presidency of the Republic and extended his best wishes, assuring him of his prayers,” the Holy See Press Office stated. "Cardinal Parolin also noted with pleasure," it added, "the prompt appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam earlier today.”

The Vatican Secretary of State’s visit and the meetings in Amman signify the Holy See’s continued commitment to fostering peace and stability in the Middle East, especially for the Christian communities that are vital to the region's religious and cultural diversity.

Courtesy: Vatican News