Pope Francis visits Mongolia in historic 1st for the Holy See

In a first-ever visit from any Pope, Pope Francis arrived in Mongolia on Friday for a four-day trip which the Vatican hopes will facilitate improvements in its relations with China — Mongolia’s neighbour.

As a customary practice, the Pope wires blessings to the leaders of each country he flies over. For this particular trip, the head of the Roman Catholic Church sent well wishes to Chinese President Xi Jinping, despite their differences.

Acknowledging the Pope’s blessings — which he said “reflect friendship and goodwill” — Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin claimed “China is willing to continue to work with the opposite side to hold constructive dialogue.”

Aside from hoping to improve relations with China. the Pope’s visit is meant to encourage the 1,450 Catholics in Mongolia. He will also meet with President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, among other government officials.

Mongolia’s small Catholic community revelled upon hearing of the Pope’s imminent arrival, setting up for his arrival with banners, events and entertainment in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

For more info, please go to https://globalnews.ca/news/9850903/reconciliation-one-year-after-pope-apology/

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