Having arrived at the Mytilene international airport earlier this morning, the Holy Father met briefly with the Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic, His Excellency, Alexis Tsipras. Following that encounter, the Director of the Holy See Press Centre, Father Federico Lombardi, SJ issued the following declaration.
During the meeting of His Holiness, Pope Francis with His Excellency the Prime Minister of Greece, Mister Alexis Tsipras, the main theme of the conversations was the refugee and migration crisis and more in particular the situation on the island of Lesvos.
It was underlined that the refugee crisis is a European and international issue calling for a comprehensive response that respects European and international law.
The Pope has appreciated the humane stance of the Greek people, who despite harsh economic strains have shown solidarity and commitment to universal values.
Furthermore, the need was underlined to protect people from risking their lives by crossing the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, through combating human smuggling networks, eliminating dangerous routes and developing safe resettlement procedures to Europe.
Statement of the Director of the Press Office of the Holy See
after the Meeting of His Holiness Pope Francis
and the Prime Minister of Greece, Mister Alexis Tsipras
During the meeting of His Holiness, Pope Francis with His Excellency the Prime Minister of Greece, Mister Alexis Tsipras, the main theme of the conversations was the refugee and migration crisis and more in particular the situation on the island of Lesvos.
It was underlined that the refugee crisis is a European and international issue calling for a comprehensive response that respects European and international law.
The Pope has appreciated the humane stance of the Greek people, who despite harsh economic strains have shown solidarity and commitment to universal values.
Furthermore, the need was underlined to protect people from risking their lives by crossing the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, through combating human smuggling networks, eliminating dangerous routes and developing safe resettlement procedures to Europe.
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