Pope Francis on
Wednesday praised Italy's "admirable" Mare Nostrum sea-rescue
program that has saved thousands of desperate migrants fleeing
war and famine for safety in Europe.
During his general audience in St. Peter's Square, the pope
praised the work of the Italian government as well as the Navy's
sailors and officers involved in the program established almost
one year ago after two migrant boat disasters that killed about
400 people.
Francis said the program, which is to be replaced in
November by a larger European initiative called Frontex Plus,
was "admirable work".
"Thank you for your admirable work on behalf of so many
brothers and sisters in search of hope. Thank you. Thank you so
much," said the pope.
Mare Nostrum (Our Sea) has been controversial, with some
political parties complaining that it has encouraged human
traffickers.
Francis showed his sympathy and concern for migrants soon
after he was elected pope, by travelling in March 2013 to visit
a migrant centre in Lampedusa, Italy's southern-most spot and
the closest European landing point to North Africa.
http://popefrancisnewsapp.com/
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
