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🇸🇳 Senegal /Economy & Trade

In Angola, Leo XIV Denounces 'Catastrophes' Linked to Resource Exploitation

From Le Soleil · (5d ago) French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Pope Leo XIV criticized the "social and environmental catastrophes" stemming from the "logic of exploitation" of natural resources during his visit to Angola.
  • He addressed concerns that his recent speeches in Africa were a response to US President Donald Trump, clarifying they were pre-written and not intended as a retort.
  • The Pope urged Angolan authorities to embrace diversity and not suppress the visions of the youth and the dreams of the elderly, in a country where over two-thirds of the population is under 24.

Pope Leo XIV has delivered a powerful message during his visit to Angola, directly confronting the destructive consequences of resource exploitation. His condemnation of the "social and environmental catastrophes" born from a relentless pursuit of material wealth resonates deeply in a nation like Angola, which has long grappled with the paradox of immense natural riches and persistent socio-economic challenges.

How much suffering, how many deaths, how many social and environmental catastrophes are generated by this logic of exploitation!

— Pope Leo XIVDenouncing the negative impacts of resource exploitation in his first speech in Angola.

The Pope's remarks, made upon his arrival in the Angolan capital, serve as a moral compass, urging a shift away from a purely extractive mindset. His words, "How much suffering, how many deaths, how many social and environmental catastrophes are generated by this logic of exploitation!", are a stark reminder of the human and ecological cost often overlooked in the drive for economic gain.

Addressing potential misinterpretations, Pope Leo XIV clarified that his critical stance on global issues, including his earlier remarks in Cameroon, predated any perceived slights from President Donald Trump. This assertion underscores the pontiff's commitment to addressing systemic problems rather than engaging in political tit-for-tat, reinforcing the universality of his message.

Do not be afraid of dissent, do not stifle the visions of the young and the dreams of the old.

— Pope Leo XIVUrging Angolan authorities to embrace diversity and listen to all generations.

From our perspective at Le Soleil, the Pope's visit is more than a pastoral tour; it's an opportunity for introspection for African nations. While international coverage might frame this as a papal critique of global economic powers, for us, it's a call to action for African leaders to manage their own resources more equitably and sustainably. His encouragement for Angola to embrace diversity and listen to its youth is particularly poignant, given the country's demographic profile. This message of hope and empowerment, delivered against the backdrop of Angola's complex history, offers a vision for a more just and prosperous future, one that prioritizes people and the planet over profit.

It is as if God is very close to us, so we can only welcome him with open arms. Africa thanks, Angola thanks, this has immense significance that I do not know how to describe.

— Unnamed CatholicExpressing gratitude for the Pope's visit to Angola.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Soleil in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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