The Poorest Country in the World with 800 Languages... What the Pope Said During His Visit

"Resource Development Should Not Be a Privilege Exclusive to Large Corporations"

Pope Francis visited Papua New Guinea, urging fair resource development and an end to tribal conflicts. The Pope is currently on a tour of four countries in Asia and Oceania.

According to the Vatican on the 7th (local time), the Pope delivered a speech to Papua New Guinea officials, diplomats, Catholic representatives, and businesspeople at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) House in the capital, Port Moresby, that morning. In his address, the Pope called for the development of natural resources in a fair and environmentally friendly manner.

Pope Visits Papua New Guinea
Photo by Port Moresby AFP - Yonhap News

Papua New Guinea, rich in various resources such as gold, nickel, copper, timber, and natural gas, has attracted large-scale investments from global resource companies. As a result, various projects are underway. At the same time, Papua New Guinea is considered one of the poorest countries in the world. One in four citizens lives below the poverty line, and only 10% of households have access to electricity.

The Pope emphasized that Papua New Guinea's resources are "provided by God for the entire community." He added, "Even if large corporations participate in resource development, the benefits should not be exclusive to them," and stated, "When distributing profits and employing workers, the needs of local residents must be fully considered to improve their living conditions."

He further explained, "Natural resources should be developed in a sustainable way that enhances everyone's welfare without excluding anyone, through international cooperation, mutual respect, and agreements beneficial to all parties."

The Pope also urged an end to the long-standing tribal conflicts in Papua New Guinea. Due to its jungles, mountainous terrain, and islands, transportation conditions are poor, and as a multiethnic country with over 800 languages, its political situation is complex. The central government has little influence in mountainous and tropical rainforest areas, where various tribes live according to their own ways.

While praising Papua New Guinea's diversity, the Pope noted that this diversity has long caused conflicts, saying, "Intertribal violence results in many casualties, hinders people from living peacefully, and impedes development, so I especially hope it will come to an end." He appealed, "We must firmly step onto the path that stops the whirlpool of violence and leads to cooperation," urging everyone to take responsibility.

The Pope also emphasized women's rights, stating, "Women give life, build nations, and foster growth. Let us not forget the women who stand at the forefront of human and spiritual development."

As of 2021, Papua New Guinea ranked 160th out of 161 countries on the United Nations Gender Inequality Index. According to the UN, 60% of women in Papua New Guinea have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime, living without adequate protection.

The Pope will stay in Papua New Guinea until the 9th before moving on to East Timor.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Korea will visit the Vatican in Rome to meet Pope Francis.