Pope expresses concern over East Asia tensions

Vatican, Jan. 10 (CNA) Pope Leo XIV, leader of the Holy See, Taiwan's sole diplomatic ally in Europe, expressed concern over rising tensions in East Asia and called for peaceful dialogue during his annual New Year's address to the diplomatic corps on Friday.

The New Year's audience is considered a cornerstone of Vatican diplomacy, where the Pope delivers an address that is usually regarded as his interpretation of the state of the world.

Taiwan's ambassador to the Holy See Anthony Ho (賀忠義), who attended the event with embassy staff, shook hands with the Pope and conveyed greetings and well-wishes from Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te (賴清德). In response, the Pope expressed his gratitude.

Ho also thanked the Pontiff for twice offering public prayers for Taiwanese people affected by typhoons since his inauguration last May.

The ambassador reaffirmed that Taiwan remains a committed partner of the Holy See in promoting freedom, peace, justice, and human rights.

In his speech, Pope Leo XIV warned that war is once again prevailing, lamenting that global peace increasingly relies on force rather than justice.

Addressing regional stability, the Pope noted the escalation of tensions in East Asia but did not specify any particular region.

He urged all parties to resolve differences through dialogue to avoid potential conflict. He also called for immediate ceasefires in the Russo-Ukrainian war and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Pontiff further decried the decline of multilateralism and the violation of international humanitarian law, reiterating that the Holy See remains ready to support any initiative that fosters harmony and peace.