Pope discusses human trafficking, Syria, Korea, with Ban Ki-moon

Ban Ki-moon

The subject of human trafficking, was one of the main issues Pope Francis discussed with Mr Ban Ki-moon, secretary-general of the United Nations during his audience yesterday.

A statement released afterwards, said: "During the course of the cordial conversations, issues of mutual interest were discussed, in particular: situations of conflict and serious humanitarian emergency, especially in Syria and other places such as the Korean peninsula and the African continent, where peace and stability are threatened. The problem of human trafficking was noted, in particular that of women, refugees, and migrants. The UN Secretary-General, who recently began his second term in this role, outlined his project for his second five-year mandate, which focuses, among other things, on conflict prevention, international solidarity, and equitable and sustainable economic development.”

“Pope Francis also recalled the Catholic Church’s contribution, beginning with her identity and through the means proper to her, in support of the entirety of human dignity and in promoting a Culture of Encounter that helps to realize the UN’s highest institutional goals.”

Source: VIS