In his address to representatives of the Hungarian government and civil society at the former Carmelite monastery in Budapest on Friday, the head of the Catholic Church promoted the European dream and called for a humane approach to migrants and refugees.

He also spoke resolutely with regard to the Russian war in Ukraine, and peace.

Among other things, the 86-year-old Argentinian called for ways and means to be found to welcome to Europe,  those fleeing conflicts, poverty and climate change.

The issue of migration and flight, he said, was one that would affect everyone sooner or later.

“That is why it is urgent that we as Europe work on safe and legal pathways, on common mechanisms in the face of an epochal challenge that cannot be contained by rejection but must be embraced.’’