Arriving in Bangladesh, Pope quickly speaks of Rohingya
November 30, 2017
Pope Francis arrived in Bangladesh on November 30, for a visit that will continue through December 2.
After an airport reception, at which he was greeted by President Abdul Hamid, the Holy Father addressed political leaders. In the predominantly Muslim country, he lamented that “religion is often—scandalously—misused to foment divisions.”
While he had avoided direct mention of the Rohingya during his stay in Myanmar, the Pope addressed the subject soon after his arrival in Bangladesh. In his address to civil leaders he praised the “spirit of generosity and solidarity” of the people of Bangladesh, and mentioned that it was “seen most vividly in its humanitarian outreach to a massive influx of refugees frmo Rakhine state.” The Rakhine state in Myanmar is the region from which thousands of Rohingya have fled to escape persecution.
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Further information:
- Welcome Ceremony in Bangladesh (Vatican press office)
- Courtesy visit to the President of the Republic of Bangladesh and Meeting with the Authorities (Vatican press office)
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