Date of the Pope's visit to Ukraine is not yet determined, but it must take place before the visit to Kazakhstan, - Andriy Yurash
After the Saturday meeting with Pope Francis, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Vatican, Andriy Yurash expressed hope for the arrival of the pontiff in August. This is reported by the press service of RCC in Ukraine.
In an interview with Italian television RAI, Yurash said: "It is very important that the Holy Father comes to our country before going to Kazakhstan in mid-September, to present to world religious leaders their own testimony about the dramatic situation in Ukraine after the Russian invasion."
Kazakhstan is to host the VII Congress of leaders of the world and traditional religions. On September 14, a joint prayer service is scheduled, and a speech by the Pope and a meeting with individual participants of the Congress are scheduled.
Regarding the possibility of the Pope's arrival in Ukraine in August, Andriy Yurash replied: "We hope so."
"This is a visit that has not only political and diplomatic significance but also religious and spiritual. Let's take on ensuring security at every level for the Pope and believers. On our part, everything is ready for the visit," the Ambassador said, reiterating: "Should the Pope decide in the morning to come to our country, we are ready to receive him immediately." reports DEON.
"The Pope's visit to Ukraine is the strongest sign that this terrible war can be put to an end," Yurash said.
Andriy Yurash also spoke about the details of the meeting with the pontiff on the air of the Ukrainian TV channel Espresso.
"As part of the conversation, the Pope once again noted that he is very close to Ukraine and wants to confirm this closeness by visiting the country. This desire is postponed and is determined by the physical circumstances in which the Pope is now," Yurash said.
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Vatican also added that now the Pope cannot determine the date of his visit to Ukraine.
"The Pope has limited travel opportunities. Right now, he cannot determine the date when he will be able to withstand the physical exertion associated with his visit to Ukraine. When we talk about a trip to Ukraine, we need to change different types of transport that will be difficult for the Pope. He wants to complete the rehabilitation process and hear the opinion of doctors who will mark the time and possibility of his trip to Ukraine," the diplomat explained.
