Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: South Goa Member of Parliament, Captain Viriato Fernandes, on Friday morning, has revealed that despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioning the exposition of St. Francis Xavier during his visit to Margao during the Lok Sabha election.
Fernandes claimed that PM Modi spoke of Exposition during the Elections, but no Diplomatic steps had been taken and no official invitation has been extended to Pope Francis to visit India.
Speaking to reporters in Vasco, Fernandes cited information from his sources in Delhi, confirming that diplomatic protocols for such an invitation have not been followed.
“Though PM Modi met Pope Francis during the G20 summit in Italy, there was no formal invitation issued for a visit to India. When inviting a head of state, diplomatic channels must be employed, and the itinerary carefully planned. Unfortunately, that process has not taken place,” said Fernandes.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between India and the Vatican, adding that an official invitation could lead to Pope Francis visiting the country, including Goa, for the upcoming exposition of St. Francis Xavier.
“Better late than never. If this government has the will, they can still promptly use diplomatic channels and extend an official invite to Pope Francis, who is the head of the Vatican.
The exposition, held every ten years, is a major religious event in Goa, attracting devotees and pilgrims from across the globe. Pope Francis’ presence would not only be significant for the Catholic community but could also enhance diplomatic relations between India and the Vatican.” Said Fernandes
