Pope Urges World Leaders to Cancel Debts of Poor Nations

Vatican City, January 2, 2025: Pope Francis has called on political leaders worldwide to cancel or significantly reduce the debts of poorer nations, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and social justice. Speaking to a large crowd gathered at St. Peter's Square after his traditional New Year’s Day Angelus prayer on January 1, the Pope urged leaders, especially those from Christian traditions, to set an example of compassion and solidarity. He also reiterated his firm opposition to war, which he described as a “defeat” that “always destroys.”

Addressing the global issue of crushing debt, Pope Francis drew inspiration from the Jubilee theme and the Lord’s Prayer. “God is the first to forgive debts, as we always ask in the ‘Our Father,’” he stated. “The Jubilee calls us to translate this forgiveness into social terms so that no individual, family, or people is crushed by debt.” The Pontiff urged world leaders to act decisively in this regard, underscoring their moral responsibility to promote justice and equity.

In his message, Pope Francis expressed profound gratitude to diplomats and peacemakers striving to resolve conflicts worldwide. He called for prayers for peace and reconciliation, naming war-torn regions like Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s North Kivu province. “Let us pray for an end to all fighting and for a decisive focus on peace and reconciliation,” he said.

The Pope’s New Year message also addressed the devastating impact of war, referencing images of destruction he recently saw on Italian television. “Brothers and sisters, war destroys. It always destroys! War is always a defeat,” he said, applauding the efforts of those committed to fostering peace.

Extending his greetings to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Pope Francis commended the President’s New Year address, which echoed the Vatican’s emphasis on peace, unity and the challenges facing humanity, including migration and environmental degradation. The Pope assured Mattarella of his prayers and wished him well for the year ahead.

Pope Francis’s powerful appeal underscores the Vatican’s commitment to advocating for global justice and peace, calling for tangible actions to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable communities in an increasingly fragmented world.

Courtesy: Vatican News