Greetings to Pope Francis

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has extended greetings as Pope Francis celebrates the anniversary of his pontificate.

“Throughout the world you are known as a kind and wise man who is actively engaged in spreading the eternal Christian ideals of peace, understanding and love. Today your work takes on a rare value and significance both for the Catholic flock and for various denominations. I fully agree with your recent words that contacts based on trust and respect, which act as a shield against hatred, violence and injustice, are of utmost importance today,” the message of greetings reads.

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that the relations between Belarus and the Holy See is a prime example of such cooperation. “I hope our example will help others to realize that this is the most effective way of interaction. It is not pressure, imposition of someone else's will, vision, and threats, but constructive dialogue, equitable relations, and ability to hear the partner that can produce desirable results,” the President said.