Pope Francis has called on Singapore to continue its leadership on the international stage by promoting multilateralism and a rules-based global order.
“During his meeting with authorities, civil society, and the diplomatic corps in Singapore on Sept. 12, the pontiff praised the country’s “noteworthy promotion” of international cooperation, which he said is “threatened by conflicts and wars that have spilled much blood.”
“I encourage you to continue to work in favor of the unity and fraternity of humanity and the common good of all peoples and all nations, in a way that does not exclude others or is restricted to your national interests,” said Pope Francis.
The Pope also lauded Singapore’s domestic achievements, describing the nation’s economic success as a testament to its strong leadership and thoughtful planning.
He acknowledged the legacy of former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, whose vision and policies laid the foundation for Singapore’s rapid development.
“Singapore’s story is one of growth and resilience,” Pope Francis said. “This nation has reached an advanced level of development, which can only stem from rational decisions and not by chance.”
While praising Singapore’s economic prosperity, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of ensuring that all citizens, especially the most vulnerable, benefit from the country’s progress.
He warned against a singular focus on meritocracy, which could lead to the exclusion of those on society’s margins.
He also expressed concern for migrant workers, calling for fair wages and dignity for those who contribute significantly to Singapore’s development.
“I recognize and commend the various policies and initiatives put in place to support the most vulnerable, and I hope that special attention will be paid to the poor and the elderly – whose labours have laid the foundations for the Singapore we see today – as well as to protecting the dignity of migrant workers,” the Pope said.
Pope Francis touched on the role of technology in society, cautioning against its potential to isolate people rather than bring them closer.
While acknowledging the benefits of digital advancements and artificial intelligence, he emphasized the importance of fostering real human connections.
“Technologies should be used to bring us closer together by promoting understanding and solidarity, and never to isolate ourselves in a dangerously false and intangible reality,” the Pope said.
Singapore’s multicultural and multi-religious society also received praise from the Pope, who highlighted the country’s ability to maintain social harmony in a diverse environment.
He attributed this success to the impartiality of public authorities and the nation’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation between different ethnic and religious groups.
“Singapore is a mosaic of ethnicities, cultures, and religions living together in harmony,” Pope Francis said. “Mutual respect, cooperation, dialogue, and the freedom to exercise one’s belief… are the conditions that allow for Singapore’s success and stability.”
He further acknowledged the Catholic Church’s contributions to the nation’s development, particularly in education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts.
The Pope urged Catholics in Singapore to continue their charitable work, and to play an active role in building a just and cohesive society.
In his address, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of the family as the bedrock of society, urging efforts to protect and support family unity.
“Families must be allowed to transmit the values that give meaning and shape to life,” he said, warning of the social challenges that threaten to weaken family structures.
He also commended Singapore’s environmental initiatives, calling the nation a “shining example” of what humanity can achieve by working together in harmony.
He urged the country to continue innovating in sustainable development and the preservation of the planet.
