Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, extended his wishes for “much wisdom” to the president-elect of the United States, Donald J. Trump. In the framework of a conference on “The Spirit of Geneva: the impact of Artificial Intelligence on International Humanitarian Law” for the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, Parolin answered questions from the press about the recent electoral result that brought Trump to the White House.
“At the beginning of his mandate, we wish him much wisdom because this is the main virtue of rulers according to the Bible,” said Parolin.
The Cardinal stressed the need for Trump to act as president of the entire country, seeking to overcome the polarization evident in the recent election period. Furthermore, on behalf of the Holy See, he expressed the hope that Trump can be an element of peace in global conflicts.
Humility and will to end wars
Parolin referred to Trump’s promises to end wars, a claim he made during his election campaign and reiterated after his victory at the Palm Beach Convention Center. “Let’s wait, let’s wait,” Parolin said, “I think that even he doesn’t have a magic wand.” He stressed that ending wars requires a great deal of humility and will, always seeking the general interests of humanity above particular ones.
The Cardinal also expressed caution regarding the concerns of Ukrainians and Palestinians that peace could be achieved at their expense. “We will see,” Parolin said, stressing the need for time to evaluate the concrete proposals that Trump will present.
Sensible immigration policy
Regarding Trump’s position on immigration, Parolin recalled the clear position of the Pope and the Holy See in favor of a wise policy that does not go to extremes such as the mass deportation of illegal immigrants. “The Pope has given very precise indications on this issue. I believe that it is the only way to face the problem and resolve it in a humane way,” he emphasized.
Defense of life and search for consensus
Parolin stressed that, despite the differences, there are issues that unite, such as the defense of life and the condemnation of abortion. He advocated for a common policy that seeks to unite consensus instead of polarizing and dividing. “I hope that the defense of life that Trump has assured during his mandate can broaden the consensus,” said the Cardinal.
Relations with the Holy See and dialogue with China
Parolin assured that relations between the Holy See and the new US administration will continue, highlighting the opportunity to dialogue and find new points of consensus for the benefit of the common good and world peace.
Finally, Parolin mentioned that dialogue with China continues despite past tensions, recalling the renewal of the Agreement on the Appointment of Bishops for another four years last October. He stressed that the Holy See’s interest in China is “essentially ecclesial” and that political conceptions must be avoided in the evaluations of this dialogue
