Pope Francis received the credentials from seven new ambassadors this morning. They are from Yemen, New Zealand, Swaziland, Azerbaijan, Chad, Lichtenstein and India.
The pope highlighted that despite the countries' differences, these differences among nations should never be a problem.
POPE FRANCIS
“The centrifugal forces that would drive people apart are not found in their differences but in the failure to set out on the path of dialogue and understanding as the most effective means of responding to these challenges.”
For Pope Francis, ambassadors represent nations' disposition toward dialogue, to foster reconciliation.
POPE FRANCIS
“The promotion of dialogue, reconciliation and cooperation can't be taken for granted. The delicate art of diplomacy, and the arduous craft of nation-building need to be learned afresh with each new generation.”
As of January 2017, the Holy See holds diplomatic relations with 182 nations, plus the European Union and the Order of Malta.
This makes it a unique place for building bridges and strengthening international relations.
