Port Moresby. On Saturday, Pope Francis called for an end to the decades-long tribal conflicts in Papua New Guinea and urged equitable development of the country's natural resources. His appeal came during a visit that also highlighted the pervasive issue of violence against women in the region.

Dancers in traditional grass skirts welcomed Francis as he began his first full day in Papua New Guinea, balancing political meetings with church engagements. He met with local dignitaries, priests, nuns, and street children during his stay.

The visit marks the second leg of Francis' 11-day tour through Southeast Asia and Oceania, the longest of his pontificate. After arriving in Port Moresby from Jakarta, Indonesia, he addressed government officials and diplomats, emphasizing the country’s cultural diversity, with over 800 languages spoken, while acknowledging the conflicts stemming from it.

"I hope tribal violence will come to an end, as it causes many victims, prevents peace, and hinders development," Francis said, encouraging a sense of civic duty and cooperation for the nation’s progress. He stressed the need for personal sacrifices for the common good, which could lead to better infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

Papua New Guinea, home to over 10 million people, mostly subsistence farmers, has been plagued by violence, especially gender-based violence. Governor General Bob Dadae specifically addressed the need for greater protection of women and respect for their rights, referencing the widespread abuse women face in the country.

According to U.N. Women, 60 percent of Papua New Guinean women have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner, double the global average. In 2021, the country ranked 160 out of 161 on the UN’s Gender Inequality Index.

Pope Francis echoed Dadae's concerns, praising women as the backbone of the nation. "Women are the ones who carry the country forward, building and growing it. Let us not forget the women on the front line of human and spiritual development," he said.

Francis also underscored the need for responsible and sustainable extraction of the nation’s natural resources, including gold, nickel, and natural gas. He called for local communities to benefit from these resources rather than just multinational corporations, urging fair distribution of wealth and environmentally responsible practices.

"Papua New Guinea’s resources are destined by God for the entire community," he said, advocating for civil authorities to promote sustainable development.

Lastly, the pope called for a resolution to the issue of Bougainville, a region that voted for independence from Papua New Guinea in 2019, but whose referendum outcome has yet to be enacted.

Francis’ visit continues with meetings with charity workers, clergy, and religious sisters. On Sunday, he is set to travel deep into the jungle to meet with Argentine missionaries. Despite the demanding schedule and jet lag, the 87-year-old pontiff appeared in good spirits, handing out candies to children dressed in traditional attire who welcomed him with performances.

Leaders from across the South Pacific, including the prime minister of Vanuatu, the president of Nauru, and the prime minister of Tonga, gathered in Port Moresby to greet Francis. He is the second pope to visit Papua New Guinea, following St. John Paul II's visits in 1984 and 1995.

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