POPE-LATAM/PARAGUAY-CARTES Pope urges Paraguay to consolidate democracy, end drug trade, graft

Record ID: 147583

  • Title: POPE-LATAM/PARAGUAY-CARTES Pope urges Paraguay to consolidate democracy, end drug trade, graft
  • Date: 11th July 2015
  • Summary: **** WARNING CONTAINS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY **** VARIOUS OF POPE AND CARTES ON STAGE / PUBLIC TAKING PHOTOS (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) PARAGUAY PRESIDENT, HORACIO CARTES, SAYING: "We see that the Pope raises the flag for forgotten values and against vices, corruption, impunity and the lack of faith. That is also our flag. We appreciate his presence here in Paraguay, his vision and
  • Embargoed: 26th July 2015 13:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Paraguay
  • Country: Paraguay
  • Topics: General
  • Reuters ID: LVAA7W5LLM8ZGBDX53WV22MYJX4F
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Story Text: Pope Francis arrived in Paraguay on Friday (July 10) to a colourful welcome at the start of the last leg of his South American tour, urging Paraguay to consolidate democracy.
    The pontiff's third-leg of his South American tour has been marked by calls for economic justice and greater concern for the environment.
    Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes said the Pope's message of compassion was one his country resonates with.
    "We see that the Pope raises the flag for forgotten values and against vices, corruption, impunity and the lack of faith. That is also our flag. We appreciate his presence here in Paraguay, his vision and his direct and brave words," declared Cartes.
    In in an address to Paraguay's leaders after a private meeting with President Horacio Cartes, Francis urged the country which was a dictatorship until 1989 to consolidate democracy and respect human rights.
    "For some years now, Paraguay has been committed to building a strong and stable democratic project. It is fair to acknowledge this with satisfaction in how much progress has been made on this path through the efforts of everyone. Even amidst great difficulties and uncertainties. I encourage you to continue this with all your strengths so as to consolidate the democratic structures and institutions that respond to the legitimate aspirations of citizens," said Pope Francis.
    The pontiff also noted Paraguay's recent economic growth but said the country's leaders should always remember the poor.
    Paraguay's economy has grown at a steady clip in recent years because of energy exports and soy prices but the Church and the opposition say more resources should be used to help the poor.
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