The Hungarian government will continue its policy of providing assistance to Christian communities in difficulty around the world, the Foreign Minister said.Continue reading
Hungary and the Vatican have a common position on three issues that are not always in line with the international mainstream, such as peace-building in Ukraine, the protection of families, and support for Christians, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said in Vatican City on Wednesday.
The Minister met with the Holy See’s Foreign Minister, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher. Szijjártó underscored that Hungary and the Vatican agree on the need to end the war and human suffering in Ukraine as soon as possible- a common aspiration.
“Unfortunately, however, we have to see that the rhetoric of war prevails in international politics, and in many cases, those who act for peace are criticized and stigmatized, but this should not distract us,” he stressed.
Szijjártó said that the protection of families was also discussed, which the government sees as “an important strategic issue for the nation,” taking a similar position with the Vatican.
They spoke at length about support for persecuted Christian communities, especially as there are today some 360 million Christians in the world who are subject to persecution or discrimination.
I assured the Archbishop that Christian communities all over the world can count on us Hungarians,”
he said.
Regarding the possible visit of Pope Francis to Hungary, Szijjártó said that Hungary is waiting for the final decision, and that if a visit takes place, it will be prepared as carefully as possible.
Finally, he said that he had also visited the resting place of Pope Benedict XVI. “Many of us loved Pope Benedict, we loved what he stood for and the way he represented it. We prayed for him, we prayed for his health, and it was natural for me to visit his tomb as soon as I came to Rome,” he said.
Featured photo via Facebook/Szijjártó Péter