Pope backs UN chief’s call for global ceasefire to focus on coronavirus

Pope Francis speaks during his general audience as it is streamed via video over the internet from a library inside the Vatican, March 25, 2020. (Reuters)

• Pope Francis said everyone should stop all forms of "bellicose hostility and to favor the creation of corridors for humanitarian help"

VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis on Sunday backed a call by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a global ceasefire so the world can focus on fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking at his weekly blessing, Francis appealed to everyone to “stop every form of bellicose hostility and to favor the creation of corridors for humanitarian help, diplomatic efforts and attention to those who find themselves in situations of great vulnerability.”

Guterres made the appeal on Monday.