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In a bid to put an end to the war between Russian and Ukraine, Pope Francis following the Easter celebration prayed for the peace on the African continent even as he sought the exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine.
The Pope spoke at the Vatican; Saint Peter’s Square, and urged countries of the world to resist the logic of weapons.
He said,“My thoughts go especially to the victims of the many conflicts worldwide, beginning with those in Israel and Palestine, and in Ukraine. May the risen Christ open a path of peace for the war-torn peoples of those regions. In calling for respect for the principles of international law, I express my hope for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine: all for the sake of all!
“I appeal once again that access to humanitarian aid is ensured to Gaza, and call once more for the prompt release of the hostages seized on 7 October last and for an immediate cease-fire in the Strip,” he said in his speech broadcasted worldwide.
“May the Lord open paths of peace on the African continent, especially for the suffering peoples in Sudan and in the entire region of the Sahel, in the Horn of Africa, in the region of Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in the province of Capo Delgado in Mozambique, and bring an end to the prolonged situation of drought which affects vast areas and provokes famine and hunger.”
Francis also urged world leaders to “spare no efforts in combating the scourge of human trafficking” to free its victims.
