News & Events in Belarus

"We can say that Belarus can become an example of the peaceful coexistence of people of different cultural and religious backgrounds. I think that Belarus could be a model for the world which is suffering from conflicts when the differences become the sources of strife and violence instead of becoming the sources of mutual enrichment,” said Cardinal Parolin. He noted that the Vatican will always support such role of Belarus.

The Cardinal spoke of the good climate between the two main religious communities in Belarus and of the need to maintain it. The issue of setting up a Catholic theological academy in Belarus was also discussed during the visit. "It will train Catholic priests," the Cardinal noted.

The Vatican's Secretary of State added that during his meetings with representatives of the Belarusian government bodies on 13 March he discussed the issues on the international agenda which the Holy See is concerned about. Among them were the situation in Ukraine, the relationship between the Catholics and Orthodox and the normalization of relations between Belarus and the West. "From what I have seen, there is a willingness on the part of the Belarusian authorities to be more open towards the European Union, the rest of the world. There is a spirit which motivates the Vatican diplomacy. We believe that problems should be resolved not through isolation but through dialogue, mutual assistance, which contributes to the rapprochement and helps move forward. The Holy See would like to offer its assistance in this process. There is a willingness on our part to help this country (Belarus – note by BelTA). From the political point of view there is exactly this dimension and purpose,”the Vatican Secretary of State said.

In addition, Cardinal Parolin said: "On the part of the Holy See there is readiness for such visit (of the President of Belarus to the Vatican –note by BelTA).What is needed is the decision of the President of Belarus and a relevant request about the dates of the visit.” The Cardinal explained: "According to the Holy See's protocol, political leaders are invited to meet with the Pope. This, of course, does not rule out mutual interest and readiness for such a meeting on the part of two sides.”

Speaking about the upcoming meeting with the Catholic community of Belarus, the Cardinal noted that he would convey the words of the Pontiff about the closeness to the Roman Catholic Church in Belarus. The Cardinal intends to tell the younger generation that they are the carriers of the faith which in the past was persecuted. However, today the Church faces new challenges. "The Pope's particular concern is about the weakest, most vulnerable, those who are suffering, who need help and comforting and we need to be more attentive towards tem," the Catholic hierarch said.