Algerian Radio
On the eve of the historic visit of Pope Leo XVI to Algeria, the Vatican Ambassador to Algeria, Javier Herrera Corona, explained in an interview with Radio Algeria International (RAI) the scope and messages that the Sovereign Pontiff intends to convey through his journey.
“It is a highly significant visit in more than one respect,” and according to him, it “carries a message of hope, mercy, and inter-religious and humanitarian dialogue”.
“The Vatican leader's visit is committed to a humanitarian agenda,” said the Apostolic Nuncio at a historic moment, considering that Algeria “remains a haven of peace and a pivot of regional stability”.
“This visit is a call for coexistence and tolerance,” estimates His Excellence the Pontifical Ambassador. It also holds a historic character, as it is the first of its kind, reflecting the importance of the ties woven between Algiers and Rome within the Mediterranean and North Africa.
This millennial link between the Holy See and this region of Africa, continues the Pontifical representative, was forged through historical figures such as Saint Augustine.
“Representing the spiritual leadership of all Catholic Christians worldwide, the Pope is committed, as an authority, to fulfilling both a spiritual and civil role to advocate for coexistence and peace,” he recalls, adding that “This is exactly what the son of this land, Saint Augustine, preached—who embodied the religious and civil reference between the two shores of the Mediterranean”.
Strengthened Bilateral Relations
According to Mr. Corona, the Holy See seeks to maintain a good relationship of friendship and cordiality with the concert of nations. This visit follows the path of strengthening this bond of friendship, which is not based on commercial or political interests. “Our agenda is an agenda of humanism,” he points out.
“We can live together.” This is why, the speaker emphasizes, “it is important to fight against all forms of extremism”.
Algeria is a crossroads for inter-religious dialogue
There is an openness, a dialogue, and a will for respect regarding religion, testifies the guest of RAI. Indeed, Algeria, while remaining attached to its Muslim identity, has always shown itself to be open to dialogue and has committed to fighting extremism in all its forms.
“Obviously,” he said, “the essential thing is to control extremism. I believe that extremism must always be rejected and avoided, as it creates situations that make the most vulnerable people suffer. In our modern society, we must understand that our society is composed of various sectors and that we must learn to live together”.
