Pope Francis Calls for Peaceful \’Coexistence\’ in Caucasus

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis ended his general audience Wednesday, telling in detail about his trip to Caucasus, Radio Vaticana reports.

The Pope described his visit to Georgia and Azerbaijan as complementary to his visit to Armenia and thus by visiting all three Caucasus countries, he was able “to confirm the Catholic communities there and encourage all people in their journey towards peace and fraternity.”

“May God bless Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan, and guide his holy people in those countries.” The Pope stated

According to him, although both Georgia and Azerbaijan have ancient historical, cultural and religious roots, they have only just celebrated twenty-five years of independence after the continuous Soviet period. “The Catholic Church is called to be close to them, especially through works of charity and promoting the good of the human person, in communion with the other Churches and Christian communities, and in dialogue with other religious communities,” the Pope stressed.

Speaking last week in Tbilisi to worshipers from Georgia’s small Catholic community, Pope Francis called for peaceful “coexistence” in the conflict-ridden ex-Soviet region.