Belarus will be glad to play host to new pope - President Lukashenko
MINSK. March 14 (Interfax) - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has sent a message of greeting to Pope Francis on his election and expressed confidence in the strengthening of relations with the Vatican.
"I am voicing hope that the good relations that the Republic of Belarus and the Holy See have developed will strengthen during your pontificate. We will be glad to welcome you in the hospitable land of Belarus where relations between Orthodox Christians and Catholics are filled with the spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation," the presidential message says.
"You have dedicated all your life to God and people, to tirelessly preaching the Bible and inculcating respect for lofty spiritual ideals in human hearts. Now God has called on you as an experienced shepherd and theologian to lead the ship of St. Peter across the stormy sea of modern times," Lukashenko noted in his message.
He noted that "the mission of the Pope is also the mission of a tireless pilgrim bringing the light of hope to the world, strengthening faith and love." Lukashenko expressed confidence that in this responsible capacity Pope Francis will continue tirelessly proclaiming unshakeable Christian principles that constituted the moral foundation of human civilization.
The president wished the pope good health, wisdom and God's help in his laborious service.