As the United States welcomes President-elect Donald Trump, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, shared his thoughts on the new administration's potential impact, speaking at an event at the Gregorian University on November 7.
Offering his best wishes to Trump, Cardinal Parolin underscored the need for wisdom in leadership, a virtue central to the Bible. "Wisdom is the principal virtue of leaders," he noted, expressing hope that Trump's tenure would be marked by this guiding principle.
In an era of deepening societal divisions, Cardinal Parolin emphasized the importance of Trump governing as a unifying force. "The president has an opportunity to be a figure of détente and reconciliation, especially in global conflicts that have brought immense suffering," he said, alluding to the broader influence a U.S. president can have on the world stage.
Addressing Trump’s stated intentions to end ongoing wars, Cardinal Parolin commented, “Let us hope,” while acknowledging the complexities and challenges inherent in such ambitions. He emphasized that the path to peace requires humility and a focus on the collective good, beyond narrow, self-interested policies.
On pressing international conflicts, including those in Ukraine and the Middle East, Cardinal Parolin urged patience, pointing out that Trump’s specific plans for peace have yet to be revealed.
On migration, a significant and often divisive issue, Cardinal Parolin reiterated the Holy See’s stance, aligned with Pope Francis’s calls for humane and thoughtful immigration policies.
He cautioned against extreme measures like mass deportations, advocating instead for compassionate solutions that address the root causes of migration.
While some of Trump’s positions, such as those concerning the defense of life, find common ground with the Vatican, Cardinal Parolin warned against policies or rhetoric that could further polarize society. "Dialogue is essential to unify people around principles that protect life and uphold human dignity," he stressed.
Reflecting on the Holy See’s longstanding diplomatic relationship with the United States, Cardinal Parolin expressed optimism that mutual respect and dialogue would continue to foster stability and peace between the two states.
He also noted that slow but steady discussions with China would remain focused on ecclesial matters, underscoring that a better understanding of this focus might positively shape international perspectives on Vatican-China relations.
Cardinal Parolin’s remarks echo the Holy See’s commitment to peace, unity, and the intrinsic dignity of all people, advocating for diplomacy and cooperation to tackle the complex challenges facing today’s global community.
With inputs from Vatican News
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