Refugees need assistance, Pope tells bishop on Italian-Austrian border
April 29, 2016
In a conversation with an Italian bishop whose diocese borders Austria, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of assisting refugees.
The prelate, Bishop Ivo Muser of Bolzano-Bressanone, had previously criticized Austria’s decision to build barriers and other structures at the Brenner Pass.
During their conversation on April 27, Pope Francis “spoke of the importance of assisting refugees … underscoring the urgency of helping the person in flight,” according to a press release from Bishop Muser’s diocese.
The following day, Italy-- which opposes the closing of the Brenner Pass-- and Austria reached an agreement to avert its closing.
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Further information:
- Pellegrinaggio diocesano: Il Vescovo Muser parla con Papa Francesco dei profughi (Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone)
- Italy, Austria Make Deal To Avoid Brenner Pass Closure (AP)
- Prelates criticize tightening of Austrian border controls (CWN, 4/15)
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