Algerian Radio
The Archbishop of Algiers, Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, highlighted the significance of the upcoming historic visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Algeria, describing it as a "strong signal" and a "living testimony of coexistence" that positions Algeria as a starting point for a message of peace the world desperately needs today.
In an interview with the Algeria Press Service (APS), Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco explained that this first-of-its-kind visit by the Sovereign Pontiff to Algeria represents a "real bridge between the Christian and Islamic worlds" and reflects Algeria's rich history and civilizational depth.
He noted that the visit is "full of significance," both in its spiritual dimension and its deep symbolism. "This visit by the most prominent spiritual leader of the Christian world to a Muslim country grants it special symbolism and resends a spotlight on Algeria's historical extension as the land of Saint Augustin," he said.
Cardinal Vesco pointed out that Pope Leo XIV knows Algeria well, having visited twice before his papacy. This visit, he added, comes as a "continuation of building bridges between the two cultures and religions," Islam and Christianity, and reflects "the strategic position Algeria occupies as a crossroads between the Mediterranean and the African continent."
Addressing the common ground between Algeria and the Holy See, Cardinal Vesco highlighted their shared commitment to supporting oppressed peoples and promoting the values of coexistence and dialogue—a vision embodied in the visit’s slogan, inspired by the Islamic greeting "As-Salamu Alaykum" (Peace be upon you).
"I am delighted that this message emanates from Algeria," he said, adding that this call for peace will "emerge from a sincere dialogue to make Algeria a beacon for a message addressed to all humanity." From the Cardinal’s perspective, this appeal aims to "motivate believers of different faiths to unite around values related to the sanctity of the human being in the face of the violence and wars threatening the world."
Recalling the legacy of the late former Archbishop of Algiers, Henri Teissier, Cardinal Vesco affirmed that Algeria remains a "model to follow in coexistence," noting that religious difference can be a source of complementarity if properly understood. He also stressed that standing against hate speech and violence—which he described as "speeches of fear and fragility"—comes through entrenching an identity characterized by balance and confidence.
French Colonization in Algeria Left Deep Wounds and Indelible Marks
Regarding the issue of memory, the Archbishop of Algiers recalled "the scale of violence practiced by the French occupier in Algeria." He noted that 130 years of French colonization left deep wounds and indelible marks, particularly those related to the consequences of nuclear tests in southern Algeria.
"There is a deep wound that cannot be easily overcome," he stated, expressing regret over the absence of a "clear word of truth" regarding that period.
Drawing from his dual experience and culture (French-Algerian), Cardinal Vesco expressed his hope for an explicit recognition of the suffering endured by the Algerian people to enable "turning the page on the past." He indicated that he has called on His Holiness the Pope, as well as various concerned parties, for former colonial powers to assume their historical responsibilities.
In conclusion, Cardinal Vesco, who has resided in Algeria for over 20 years and holds Algerian nationality, expressed his "deep attachment to his second homeland," praising the generosity of the Algerian people. "Here, you will always be indebted to friendships that cannot be repaid in kind, and I have felt the sincerity and depth of this saying for over 20 years," he concluded.
