Leo XIV has arrived in Beirut, where he delivered his first address to the authorities, speaking about the resilience of the Land of the Cedars and the challenge of achieving reconciliation that goes beyond a mere balance of interests. “A culture of reconciliation cannot arise solely from the grassroots,” he warned. “Ask yourselves: what can be done so that young people are not forced to emigrate?”
The country wants to diversify its trade routes with the region, reducing its dependence on Pakistan. This trend has strengthened after recent hostilities with its neighbour. In the last month, Afghan traders have lost 200 million dollars. The trade balance with the five Central Asian countries has reached 1.7 billion.
The Pope with Bartholomew I in the Divine Liturgy for St Andrew, patron saint of the Church of Constantinople. The Patriarch expresses ‘fervent gratitude’ for the papal visit. Prevost: caring together for ‘all humanity and the whole of creation’. This morning at the Armenian Apostolic Cathedral: “Full dedication to the cause of unity”. The apostolic journey continues today in Lebanon.
A mandate entrusted to over 800 delegates to make Jesus present through their lives in their own countries brought to a close the Great Pilgrimage of Hope, which saw the Churches of the continent gather in Malaysia. Cardinal David: ‘Evangelisation in Asia cannot be shouted: it is relational, respectful, contemplative.’ Card. Ferrao: ‘The hunger for God is deep. The yearning for justice is real. The thirst for meaning among our young people is intense.’
The joint text signed by the Pope and the Patriarch: ‘Although alarmed by the international situation, our faith in Jesus the Saviour tells us that God will not abandon humanity.’ The faithful are invited to rejoice in the progress made in dialogue. Condemnation of those who use the name of God to justify violence, the hope for a common date for Easter. In the morning, a silent visit to the Blue Mosque.
Supporters say the new rules simplify the system and benefit companies and workers. Critics say the laws will “only benefit” owners, undermining employees' rights. Described as the “most radical” in decades, it reduces the previous 29 federal laws into four simplified codes, from 1,400 to 350 rules overall.
