Pope to world leaders: Lay aside the futile pursuit of a military solution in Syria




September 5, 2013 (Romereports) Pope Francis is exhausting all efforts to avoid a military strike on Syria. The latest is a the letter he wrote to the world leaders at the G-20 summit, that is underway in St. Petersburg, Russia. With strong words, Francis wrote that ever since the start of the conflict, “one-sided interests” have interfered with finding a “solution that would have avoided the senseless massacre now unfolding.”  

Francis addressed each and everyone of the G20 leaders and asked them to “lay aside the futile pursuit of a military solution.” The Vatican spokesman presented the letter during a press conference on Thursday.

P. FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican Spokesman
“To the leaders present, to each and every one, I make a heartfelt appeal for them to help find ways to overcome the conflicting positions and to lay aside the futile pursuit of a military solution. Rather, let there be a renewed commitment to seek, with courage and determination, a peaceful solution through dialogue and negotiation of the parties, unanimously supported by the international community.”

The letter  is a clear message to the presidents of the United States and France, and Britain's Prime Minister. All of whom are seeking support for a possible intervention in Syria.

In addition, the Vatican's secretary for relations with states summoned all of the accredited ambassadors of the Holy See, and explained the Pope's position on the Syrian conflict.

ARCH. DOMINIQUE MAMBERTI
Secretary for Relations with States
“Above all, it's essential to take action towards resuming dialogue between all parts involved to achieve the reconciliation of the Syrian people. It's necessary to protect the country's unity, avoiding a fractionated constitution of its society members. Plus, it's crucial to guarantee, along with the country's unity, territorial integrity.”

The Vatican's top diplomat also asked the opposition to distance itself from extremists.

Pope Francis pressed his call for a day of fasting and prayer dedicated to Syrian peace. It'll take place Saturday, and will end in a four hour prayer vigil at St. Peter's Square. It will be the longest ceremony to date that a Pope has participated in.

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