Pope Francis on Sunday encouraged countries to take in Afghan refugees trying to flee the oppressive Taliban regime, saying they should be able to “live with dignity.”
“In these turbulent times, when Afghans are seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable,” Francis, 84, said during the weekly blessing in St. Peter’s Square.
“I pray that many countries will welcome them and protect those who are looking for a new life.”
Although he did not mention the Taliban by name, the pontiff appeared to refer to the extremist group’s previous restrictions on schooling for women, saying it believes it is crucial that young Afghans receive an education.
“I also pray for the internally displaced to have the necessary help and protection. That young Afghans receive an education, which is an essential good for human development, ”said Francis.
He added that he hoped that all Afghans, whether in their homeland, in transit or in host countries, could “live with dignity, in peace, in brotherhood with their neighbors.”
Thousands of Afghans have been evacuated by the United States and are now waiting in the so-called transit centers of countries such as Qatar, Germany and Italy, while others are trying to flee via land crossings with neighboring countries such as Pakistan.
With publishing cables