Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Vatican‘s commitment to global peace and justice Saturday, receiving credentials from thirteen new ambassadors representing nations across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Pacific [[1]]. The pontiff,the first American-born Pope and one with deep ties to Latin America [[2]],urged renewed international cooperation and emphasized the Catholic Church’s role in advocating for the vulnerable amid escalating global conflicts and humanitarian crises [[3]]. The audience took place as the Church prepares for the Jubilee year, focused on rebuilding trust and promoting reconciliation.
Pope Leo XIV has called for renewed international cooperation and a commitment to multilateralism as he formally received credentials from thirteen new ambassadors to the Holy See. The pontiff’s appeal comes amid escalating global conflicts and increasing humanitarian concerns, highlighting the Vatican’s ongoing role in diplomatic efforts worldwide.
Salvatore Cernuzio – Vatican News
The audience, held Saturday, December 6, included the presentation of credentials by ambassadors from Uzbekistan, Moldova, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Liberia, Thailand, Lesotho, South Africa, Fiji, Micronesia, Latvia, and Finland – representing a diverse range of nations from across the globe. Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of diplomacy “shaped by the values of the Gospel” and focused on serving humanity, particularly by advocating for the vulnerable and marginalized.
“The Holy See will not remain silent in the face of grave inequalities, injustices, and violations of fundamental human rights in our increasingly fragmented and conflict-prone global community,” the Pope stated. This commitment to addressing global challenges underscores the Vatican’s dedication to promoting peace and justice on the international stage.
A “Disarming” Call for Peace
The Pope urged the ambassadors to embrace “hope” and “peace,” linking the latter to the upcoming Jubilee year dedicated to fostering renewed trust within the Church and society. He described peace not merely as the absence of conflict, but as “an active and demanding gift that is built in the heart and from the heart.”
“Peace calls each of us to renounce pride and revenge and to resist the temptation to use words as weapons,” he said, echoing a sentiment he first expressed shortly after his election. The pontiff stressed the urgency of this message, noting that geopolitical tensions and fragmentation continue to worsen, impacting nations and challenging the bonds of humanity.
Renewed Multilateralism is Essential
Pope Leo XIV also highlighted the plight of the world’s most vulnerable populations, referencing his apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te to emphasize the need to avoid overlooking those easily marginalized by economic and technological changes. He expressed hope that diplomatic missions and constructive relations between the Holy See and various nations can offer “concrete help” in addressing these concerns.
The Pope called for “a renewed spirit of multilateral commitment” at a time when it is “absolutely necessary,” advocating for the revitalization of international organizations created to resolve disputes between nations. This call for strengthened international cooperation reflects a belief in the power of collective action to address global challenges.
Vatican Support for Diplomats
“I trust that together we will be able to highlight the situations of those in need and who are often forgotten, and that our common commitment will inspire the international community to lay the foundations for a more just, fraternal, and peaceful world,” Pope Leo XIV said. He assured the thirteen new ambassadors of the support of the Secretariat of State as they begin their missions.
Concluding his address, the Pope encouraged the ambassadors to contribute to opening new doors for dialogue, promoting unity, and advancing the peace that humanity so deeply desires.
