President Gustavo Petro thanked Cuba and Venezuela for facilitating peace talks with the ELN during a meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. They discussed migration, climate change, and conflicts in Colombia. Petro invited the Pope to visit Colombia, presenting cultural gifts. His comments stressed the necessity of addressing migration with humanitarian perspectives, warning against the potential destructiveness of narrow policies.
In a significant meeting at the Vatican, President Gustavo Petro of Colombia expressed gratitude towards Cuba and Venezuela for their roles as mediators in the ongoing peace discussions with the National Liberation Army (ELN). This comes after a private audience with Pope Leo XIV, where Petro mentioned the ELN’s willingness to recommence talks in these countries.
Petro particularly praised Cuba, highlighting its history of struggle. He stated, “I thank Cuba and Venezuela—specifically Cuba, which has suffered so much—for offering its territory to talk about peace.” He further emphasized the importance of remembering the theory of effective love during such discussions, pointing to the complexities of power in the realm of global politics.
The meeting with the Pope lasted around 20 minutes, during which they touched on various topics, including migration, the climate crisis, and the urgent need to resolve conflicts not only in Colombia but around the world. Petro extended a personal invitation for Pope Leo XIV to visit Colombia, specifically the Chiribiquete region, remarking, “it is the first land that emerges from the water on the planet.”
Additionally, he highlighted Santa Marta, proclaiming it to be “the heart of the world,” indicating its cultural and historical significance.
In a parting note, Petro pointed out that the Pontiff’s knowledge of Latin America could facilitate U.S. understanding of migration issues by reframing them in a humanitarian context. He warned that a focus solely on combating migration could lead to devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Colombian president presented Pope Leo XIV with a replica of the Muisca Raft, an Arhuaca woven backpack crafted by indigenous women, accompanied by a handmade hammock from Morroa and Colombian coffee – all symbols of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and warmth.
President Gustavo Petro’s recent meeting with Pope Leo XIV underscored Colombia’s ongoing quest for peace with the ELN, with Cuba and Venezuela being acknowledged for their mediating roles. The discussions also reflected broader themes regarding migration, climate change, and the Pope’s potential influence on U.S. diplomatic approaches. As a testament to Colombia’s cultural richness, Petro’s gifts to the Pope further illustrated the country’s heritage. In summary, this audience not only highlights diplomatic efforts but also signifies a hopeful approach towards resolving pressing global issues.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
