Cardinal Parolin: Dialogue is the only means to achieve peace

By Linda Bordoni

Speaking at the final plenary session of the High Level Conference for Peace in Ukraine, held in Switzerland on June 15-16, Cardinal Pietro Parolin reiterated the Pope's conviction that dialogue between all parties involved is the the only way to achieve “a true, stable and just peace.”

The Vatican Secretary of State also reaffirmed the Holy See's commitment to maintaining “regular communication with the Ukrainian and Russian authorities” and contributing to possible mediation initiatives.

Delegation of the Holy See

A delegation from the Holy See led by Cardinal Parolin, accompanied by the Apostolic Nuncio to Switzerland, Mgr. Martin Krebs, and Mgr. Paul Butnaru, official of the Section for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Secretariat of State, was present. observer at the Summit having accepted the joint invitation of the President of the Swiss Confederation and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

While reaffirming its presence and willingness to assist diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in any way, the Holy See did not sign the final Summit communiqué in accordance with its observer status.

In his speech, Cardinal Parolin praised the initiative which, according to him, was “carefully prepared by Ukraine, which, while making enormous efforts to defend itself against aggression, has also worked continuously diplomatically, eager to achieve a just and lasting peace.” .”

Expressing his belief that in the face of war, it is crucial to continue to seek ways to end the conflict “with good intentions, trust and creativity.”

Dialogue is the only way

He recalled that this message is conveyed on several occasions by Pope Francis whose appeals, in particular to the leaders of nations, emphasize that “the only means capable of achieving a true, stable and just peace is dialogue between all parties involved. “.

The Cardinal stressed that “in accordance with its nature, the Holy See participates as an observer, paying particular attention to respect for international law and humanitarian issues.”

Thus, regarding the first aspect, he reaffirmed “the validity of the fundamental principle of respect for the sovereignty of each country and the integrity of its territory. “

Repatriation of children

The Cardinal also said that the Holy See is very concerned about the tragic humanitarian consequences of the war “and is particularly committed to facilitating the repatriation of children and encouraging the release of prisoners, especially seriously injured soldiers and civilians.” .

He stressed the importance of reuniting minors with their families or legal guardians and “any exploitation of their situation is unacceptable.”

Thus, Cardinal Parolin called for the strengthening of all available channels to facilitate this process.

He explained that the Holy See participates as an observer in the work of the International Coalition for the Repatriation of Ukrainian Children from Russia and maintains direct contacts with the Ukrainian and Russian authorities with the aim of strengthening “the effectiveness of the mechanism ad hoc created following the visit of Cardinal Matteo Zuppi to kyiv and Moscow, with a view to resolving concrete cases.

Prisoners

The Vatican Secretary of State also drew attention to the plight of civilian and military prisoners, expressing concern “at periodic reports of non-compliance with the Geneva Conventions.”

“In particular on the Fourth Convention, which most directly concerns civilians, and on the difficulty of creating, with the International Committee of the Red Cross, a joint medical commission which could assess the situation of prisoners of war requiring medical care urgent,” he said. said.

The commitment of the Holy See

The Cardinal reaffirmed the commitment of the Holy See “to maintain regular communication with the Ukrainian and Russian authorities, and remains ready to contribute to the implementation of possible mediation initiatives that are acceptable to all parties and benefit those who have been affected.

At the same time, he added, it encourages countries and other members of the international community “to explore ways to provide assistance and facilitate mediation, whether humanitarian or political in nature.”

“In the name of Pope Francis,” Cardinal Parolin concluded, “I wish to confirm his personal closeness to the tormented Ukrainian people and his unwavering commitment to peace.”