Pope appeals for social justice, stability in Myanmar

Pope Francis on Sunday said that he followed the situation in Myanmar with "great concern", appealing to "those who have responsibility in the country" to work for the "common good" and "democratic co-existence."

The pontiff made the remarks as tens of thousands took to the streets in an effort to roll back last Monday’s seizure of power by the military in the Southeast Asian country.

Protesters also demanded the release from detention of the country’s ousted leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, and other top figures from her National League for Democracy party.

Speaking to the public in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, Francis spoke of his affection for the country since his visit there in 2017 and led the faithful in a moment of silent prayer for Myanmar.

The pontiff also expressed his concern for the many unaccompanied children along the migrant routes taken by "those who for various reasons must leave home in their homeland".

"Let's make sure that these fragile and vulnerable creatures will receive the needed care from the humanitarian preferential channels," Francis added.

Image: AP