Welcome everyone, Pope hints to leader of Hungary
POPE Francis urged Hungary to “extend its arms towards everyone”, in a veiled critique of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s anti-migrant policies.
The pontiff made his comments starting a four-day visit to Central Europe, his first big overseas outing since intestinal surgery in July.
Francis, 84, appeared in good form during his short visit to Budapest, presiding over a lengthy Mass for a crowd that organisers said reached 100,000 people.
Francis spent seven hours in Budapest before moving on to a four-day tour of neighbouring Slovakia. Francis did meet Mr Orban, whose refugee policies clash with his own call for welcome and integration for those seeking better lives in Europe.
Mr Orban has frequently depicted his government as a defender of Christian civilisation in Europe.