Pope Francis has said that his message for Pakistan was “peace” and added that he would try his “best” to visit Pakistan soon.

“We all should work together for establishing peace in the world,” he said during a meeting with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi who called on him at the Vatican City on Tuesday.

Naqvi is on a Europe visit. The minister was accorded a warm welcome upon his arrival in the Vatican City.

The Pope added that Pakistan’s prime minister had invited him for a visit and he “would try his best” to visit the country soon.

Both sides discussed ways to promote peace, brotherhood, interfaith harmony and dialogue during the meeting. Pope Francis commended Pakistan’s efforts towards “immediate repair and reconstruction” of Churches in the aftermath of the Jaranwala tragedy.

A violent mob of hundreds ransacked and torched five churches, attacked the residences of members of the Christian community, following an alleged incident of blasphemy in Jaranwala town of Faisalabad district, on August 16, 2023.

The Pope expressed concern over the Palestinian situation, stating that it was a cause of “huge concern.” He added that he stayed updated on the humanitarian situation in Palestine through daily briefings with workers engaged in relief efforts.

He emphasised that interfaith dialogue and harmony was the key to resolve issues.

Interior Minister Naqvi thanked him for his “effective stance” on the Palestine issue, which had been widely appreciated.

The minister apprised Pope Francis regarding Pakistan’s sacrifices and efforts in the war against terrorism. He lauded the services of the Pope towards promoting peace and harmony in the world.

The minister said that the protection of minorities was a top priority of the Government of Pakistan and added that the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Father of the Nation Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Constitution emphasised the protection and well-being of minorities.

He highlighted that the Constitution ensured equal rights to all minorities.

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The meeting concluded with the Pope praying for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity and expressing good wishes for the people of Pakistan.

In 2022, Pope Francis had called on the international community to help Pakistan, where deadly floods have killed more than 1,000 people.

The Argentine pontiff appealed for “prompt and generous international solidarity”, and said he was praying for the victims.