Pope Francis has started a two-day visit to Sri Lanka, a country which remains deeply marked by three decades of war between the government, dominated by the Sinhala majority, and the Tamil rebels, the ethnic minority. Welcomed at Colombo airport by the new president Maithripala Sirisena, the Holy Father launched an appeal for reconciliation and respect for human rights.
It is not an easy task to overcome the bitter legacy of injustice, hostility and mistrust left by this conflict. It will only be possible if good overcomes evil. ”
The Pope was also to advocate interreligious dialogue in this country where Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians hardly coexist.
After Sri Lanka, the sovereign pontiff will fly to the Philippines.