Pope Urges Debt Relief for Poorer Nations

Pope Francis calls for global action to provide debt relief for poorer countries, emphasizing the urgent need for economic justice and sustainable development.

While speaking to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis called on world leaders from affluent countries to cancel or reduce the debts of less privileged nations, coinciding with the Vatican’s Jubilee Year celebration in 2025.

The Jubilee calls for translating debt remission to a social level, ensuring that no individual, family, or nation is overwhelmed by debts. Consequently, I urge the leaders of countries with Christian roots to lead by example and cancel or significantly reduce the debts of the world’s poorest nations,” emphasized the Pontiff.

In addition to addressing debt relief, the Pope expressed his hope for an end to global conflicts by 2025.

Pope Francis urged us to pray for the cessation of conflict everywhere and a strong shift towards peace and reconciliation. He expressed his concern for those suffering in Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Myanmar, Kivu, as well as many other regions affected by war.

During the New Year’s Day Mass, he also encouraged Catholics to oppose abortion.

Francis faced recent criticism for his comments on the matter in Belgium. While visiting Brussels in September, he described Belgium’s abortion laws as “homicidal.”

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called Francis’ comments “totally unacceptable” and summoned the Vatican’s ambassador to Belgium.