Pope urges end to tribal conflicts in Papua New Guinea

Francis yesterday called for an end to tribal conflicts that have wracked Papua New Guinea for decades and appealed for equitable development of its natural resources during a visit that also surfaced the country's problem of violence against women.

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During his speech to government authorities and diplomats, Francis marveled at the diversity of Papua New Guinea's people - there are some 800 languages spoken here - saying their variety must be "a challenge to the Holy Spirit, who creates harmony amid differences!" But he also noted that such diversity has long created conflict here, a reference to the tribal violence over land and other disputes that have long characterized the country's culture, but have grown more lethal in recent years.

Francis appealed for a sense of civic responsibility and cooperation to prevail to benefit everyone.