Pope Francis expressed hope that newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump, beginning his second term, would contribute to building a fairer society with no room for hatred.
In a message made public by the Vatican, the Pope conveyed his aspirations that, inspired by the ideals of the United States as a land of opportunity and welcome, the American people would prosper under Trump’s leadership and work towards creating a more just society, free from hatred, discrimination, and exclusion.
The Pope also expressed his prayers for guidance in promoting peace and reconciliation among nations, especially as humanity faces numerous challenges, including the scourge of war. He did not reference any specific conflicts in his remarks.
The day before, in what appeared to be a veiled critique, the Pope noted that implementing large-scale deportations of undocumented migrants, a plan outlined by Trump, would be regrettable. Trump has pledged a hard-line approach toward approximately 11 million undocumented migrants in the United States, vowing to conduct what he described as the largest deportation operation in American history.
While such a programme could face legal challenges and potential resistance from some countries to accept deportees, the Pope has previously criticised Trump’s stance on immigration. During Trump’s first term in 2017, the two met for a 30-minute discussion at the Vatican.
In February 2016, the Pope remarked that anyone who prioritised building walls instead of bridges, regardless of who they were, could not be considered Christian.
Also read: What Trump plans on day one back in the White House
Photo source: CNN
Source: ANA-MPA
