Image Credits: Reuters
As Pope Francis concluded his 12-day tour of the Asia-Pacific region, he spoke candidly about his observations of Singapore during a press conference held aboard a Singapore Airlines flight returning to Rome. This marked a unique opportunity for reporters, who had traveled with the pontiff, to engage directly with him in a more informal setting.
The press conference took place mid-flight on the Airbus A350-900, approximately 10 kilometers above ground. The atmosphere on the plane was charged with activity as Vatican-accredited media personnel prepared for the session, deploying audio equipment to ensure clear communication despite the aircraft’s noise.
During the session, Pope Francis described Singapore as the “New York of the East,” praising the city-state for its cleanliness, politeness, and impressive architecture. He noted the country’s strong inter-religious culture and referred to a recent inter-religious meeting as a model of fraternity. This observation aligns with his broader message of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
The Pope also expressed surprise at Singapore’s cultural crossroads and mentioned his astonishment upon learning that the country would soon host the Formula One night race. On the topic of migrant workers, he reflected on the city’s skyscrapers and clean environment, noting that such developments highlight the importance of fair wages for the workers who built and maintain these structures.
Regarding lessons Singapore might learn from the other countries visited—Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Timor Leste—Pope Francis suggested that Singapore could benefit from Timor Leste’s higher birth rate. He emphasized that children are vital for a nation’s future and encouraged Singapore to reflect on this aspect.
The press conference also touched on other global issues, including China, the upcoming U.S. presidential election, and the Gaza conflict. The Pope reiterated his respect for China’s culture and expressed a desire for increased Vatican-China collaboration on conflict resolution. He critiqued the death penalty, stating it should be phased out, and provided his views on U.S. election candidates and their positions on life and migration issues.
In closing, the Pope addressed the sensitive topic of sexual abuse, stressing the need for transparency and condemnation of such crimes. Despite the turbulence of the discussion, he concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of addressing abuse openly and protecting the dignity of all individuals.
As the flight neared its end, the Pope’s staff distributed gifts to the journalists, including commemorative medals and rosaries, further demonstrating his personal touch and gratitude. This gesture, along with his reflections during the flight, highlighted the pontiff’s deep engagement with the regions he visited and his commitment to addressing complex global issues with compassion and clarity.