Pope Francis has composed
a message ahead of the Catholic Church's 50th World Day of
Peace, to be celebrated on January 1, 2017, the Vatican said
Friday.
The message titled 'Non-violence: a style of politics for
peace' says arms trafficking is at the root of many ongoing
conflicts and must be stopped.
"The global arms trade is so vast as to be generally
underestimated," the Vatican said in a statement.
"Illegal arms trafficking supports many conflicts around the
world. Non-violence as a style of politics can and must do much
to contain this scourge".
Francis' message says disputes must be solved through
diplomacy and negotiation before they degenerate into armed
conflict.
"Non-violence implies respect for the culture and identity
of all peoples, thereby overcoming the idea that one side is
morally superior to the other," the statement said.
"This does not mean however, that one nation can remain
indifferent to the tragedies of another".
The World Day of Peace was first launched by Pope Paul VI
and is celebrated annually on January 1.
The pontiff's message is traditionally sent to governments
worldwide, outlining the Holy See's diplomatic vision for the
new year.
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