The Pope has recognized the Republic of South Sudan and urged the international community to support dialogue between the two Sudans.
The recognition was made public yesterday by the Pope’s envoy to the Declaration of Independence during a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Theresa’s Cathedral in Juba.Cardinal John Njue, archbishop of Nairobi-Kenya, read a message saying that the Holy See recognizes the independence of the Republic of South Sudan and will give due consideration to any request from its government.
He invited the international community to support both Sudan and South Sudan in order to find just solutions to outstanding questions through franc, peaceful and constructive dialogue.
Cardinal Njue said the Holy Father sent to President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the authorities all citizens of South Sudan best wishes for peace and prosperity.
He added that the independence was not the end of the road but the beginning of a new phase of nation building based in peace, reconciliation and respect for universal rights.
At the end of the mass, Archbishop Paolino Lukudu Loro urged the Holy See to establish an embassy in Juba.
The Holy See has maintained diplomatic relations with Khartoum since 1972.