Pope Francis urges debt relief for poorer nations

In his Easter message on April 12, 2020, Pope Francis urged wealthy nations to forgive the debts of poorer countries amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

He described the global health crisis, which has brought sorrow, hardship, and economic difficulties, as an "Easter of solitude" for many.

Pope Francis proclaimed that the resurrection of Christ is the victory of love over evil, a victory achieved by passing through suffering and death, not by avoiding them.

He emphasized that the resurrection is not a magical solution but a transformation of evil into good, demonstrating God's power.

The Pope stressed that with Christ rising from the dead, humanity acquires a fundamental right that can never be taken away: the right to hope.

He encouraged leaders to work actively for the common good and provide the means for everyone to lead a dignified life.

Pope Francis called on the world to overcome indifference and self-centeredness during this time of global suffering and to unite in facing the pandemic.