The Holy See's peace efforts in South Sudan continue. The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, has made his second solo trip to the country.
The Vatican diplomat traveled there last July to make an appeal for peace on behalf of Pope Francis. He returned a few months later with the Pope on his apostolic journey at the beginning of 2023, which focused on calling for an end to the civil conflict.
Six months later, the Vatican is still working to help facilitate peace in the country. Cardinal Parolin has been closely monitoring the mediation process being carried out by the Community of Sant'Egidio.
In addition, he met with President Kiir and his foreign minister in the country's capital in a meeting reported on South Sudan's official website.
One of the issues discussed was preparation for the general elections to be held in 2024. They were originally scheduled for this year. They will be the first democratic elections since the country's independence in 2011, when South Sudan became the youngest country in the world.
On the other hand, Cardinal Parolin's agenda in South Sudan also included a visit to the Diocese of Malakal. The Cardinal was invited by the bishop to learn about the situation caused by natural disasters and famine.
In addition to his visit to South Sudan, Cardinal Parolin also traveled to the country of Angola for three days.
CA
TR: KG
