Speaking to journalists, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin touches on the tensions between the United States and Europe, saying it is essential “to discuss the controversial issues, but without engaging in polemics and without creating further tensions.”
By Daniele Piccini
The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, spoke to journalists about tensions between the United States and Europe on January 21 on the sidelines of the event entitled, ‘An International Dialogue to Connect Young People to the Future’ in Rome.
He stressed that “tensions are not healthy and create a climate that worsens an international situation that is already serious. I believe the important thing would be to eliminate tensions, to discuss the controversial points, but without entering into polemics and without fueling tensions.”
The event held at the Auditorium Antonianum marked the 25th anniversary of the Observatory for Independent Thinking.
Invitation to the Board of Peace on Gaza
Turning to the topic of the Board of Peace for Gaza, the Cardinal reflected on how President Trump is inviting a number of countries to participate.
“I believe I read in the newspaper this morning that Italy, too, is considering whether or not to join,” he continued, “We also received the invitation to the Board of Peace for Gaza; the Pope has received it, and we are considering what to do.”
He argued, “It is an issue that requires some time to be properly assessed and to provide a response.”
Speaking about the Board of Peace for Gaza, the Cardinal said that the Holy See would not take part financially, noting, “We are not even in a position to do so.”
However, he pointed out that the Vatican is in a different situation from other countries, and therefore the analysis will be different. But, the Cardinal said, “I believe the request will not be for economic participation.”
Respect for international law
Commenting on the US President’s statement in Davos that he loves Europe but does not like the direction it is taking, the Vatican Secretary of State said: “That is his point of view. What matters is respect for international law. I believe this is the essential point, beyond personal feelings, which are legitimate, but what is important is respect for the rules of the international community.”
Freedom of the press and trust in journalism
When asked about freedom of the press, the Cardinal said that “trust in the media is extremely important.”
But, he said, it is equally important to ensure “responsible use of the press. I think that is the key: a responsible use of the media that seeks to build up rather than polarize or destroy.”
Venezuela, a beautiful country
“Venezuela is a beautiful country—I enjoyed it during the four years I served as Apostolic Nuncio in Caracas. It was an unforgettable experience,” Cardinal Parolin said, answering questions from journalists during the event at the Auditorium Antonianum.
Between 2009 and 2023, the Cardinal added, “there were major political difficulties. When I arrived, there was tension between the bishops and Chávez, because the bishop's voiced criticism of the President’s political direction; then things got worse. Now we find ourselves in this new situation of enormous uncertainty, and it is hard to predict how it will develop. What matters is to respond to the needs of the people, who are living through a profound crisis,” he concluded.
Iran and a “Third World War fought piecemeal”
The Secretary of State then recalled the Church’s perspective in conflicts.
“A crisis brings unspeakable suffering for the population. This is the Holy See’s lens. First and foremost, our attention is on people—we must not think in terms of numbers, but of faces,” he said in response to a question about the protests in Iran.
He acknowledged that the expression Pope Francis used to describe the international situation— “a Third World War fought piecemeal”—has become a “reality.”
Yet, he added, slogans do not always capture complexity. “I’m sorry,” he continued, “that these phrases then become slogans with no impact on reality and without solutions being found. This is a great limitation of our world.”
Answering a question about the nuclear threat, the Cardinal reiterated that “the Holy See has always worked for disarmament. We must reduce armaments, because once they exist, they are used. The Holy See,” he stressed, “upholds the immorality not only of the use but also of the possession of nuclear weapons.”
The Israeli Palestinian conflict
Cardinal Parolin said he was convinced that the resolution of the conflict between Israel and Palestine is the key to peace throughout the Middle East.
“Once that is resolved,” he commented, “the others will be resolved as well. For ten years now, the Holy See has recognized the State of Palestine.”
Finally, the Secretary of State reiterated what he called the “still viable” two-state solution supported by the Holy See.
“We still consider the formula of two peoples in two states feasible, but the important thing is to reach an agreement and offer hope to the Palestinian people," he said. "We will see what happens with the Board of Peace on Gaza. What is needed is creativity—to find an approach that ensures Palestinians the right to live in peace in their own land.”
