Italian naval program to save migrants wins papal praise

September 10, 2014

Pope Francis has praised the "admirable" work of an Italian naval force in saving migrants who have sought to cross the Mediterranean.

The "Mare Nostrum" program was inaugurated by the Italian navy last year, in response to two major disasters in which about 400 migrants died, attempting the crossing from northern Africa in flimsy overcrowded vessels. Pope Francis recognized officers of the program during his September 10 public audience. "Thank you so much," he said.

The Mare Nostrum program will be superseded in November by a larger program, named Frontex Plus, which will combine the naval forces of European countries. Both programs have been criticized by anti-immigrant politicians, who claim that the initiatives encourage illegal immigration.

 

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Further information:

• Pope praises Italy's migrant rescue plan (ANSA)
• May the Lord Reward and Give Courage to Christians in the Middle East and Syria (VIS)