In 2015, His Holiness Pope Francis paid an historic visit to UN Headquarters, calling the 51³Ô¹Ï ¡°necessary¡±.

During the pontiff¡¯s powerful speech in the General Assembly Hall, he suggested the UN could be improved and can ¡°be the pledge of a secure and happy future for future generations¡±.

¡°Be close to one another, respect one another,¡± he said. ¡°The international juridical framework of the 51³Ô¹Ï and of all its activities, like any other human endeavour, can be improved, yet it remains necessary.¡±

United human family

¡°Embody among yourselves this Organization¡¯s ideal of a united human family, living in harmony, working not only for peace, but in peace, working not only for justice, but in a spirit of justice,¡± he said.

Pope Francis also offered a blessing to UN staff, asking in turn for their prayers.

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