On Myanmarโs National Day, which honors the pivotal first university student strike that initiated the countryโs journey to independence in 1948, Pope Francis urged all parties in Myanmar to pursue dialogue for lasting peace.
During his Sunday Angelus address at St. Peterโs Square in Vatican City on November 24, the Pope expressed deep concern for the suffering of Myanmarโs people, especially the most vulnerable. โI express my closeness to the entire population of Myanmar, particularly to those who are suffering for the ongoing fights, especially my closeness to the most vulnerable: to the children, the elderly, the sick, and all refugees, including the Rohingya,โ he said.
Pope Francis called for an end to violence and a renewed focus on dialogue. โTo all parties involved, I make a heartfelt appeal: let the weapons fall silent, and may a sincere and inclusive dialogue begin, capable of ensuring lasting peace,โ he urged.
The address was delivered during a gathering that also celebrated World Youth Day (WYD). In a symbolic moment, the Pope appeared at the Apostolic Palace window flanked by two young South Koreans in traditional attire who had earlier received the WYD cross. This act highlighted the upcoming WYD celebration set for 2027 in Seoul.
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