Pope Francis gave his first interview since undergoing colon surgery to the Spanish radio station COPE.
In it, he explains that he had over a foot of his intestine removed, that he is now in very good health, and that his doctors even allow him to eat freely.
He also discussed other pressing issues.
For the first time, the Pope spoke publicly about the ongoing trial of Cardinal Angelo Becciu, previously one of the Pope's closest allies.
POPE FRANCIS
“I hope with all my heart that he is innocent. Besides, he was one of my advisors and helped me a lot. He is someone I have a certain esteem for as a person, so my wish is that he comes out okay.”
When asked about abuses, Pope Francis called on governments to take tougher measures against pornography.
POPE FRANCIS
“It is a global and serious problem. I sometimes wonder how certain governments allow the production of child pornography. They can't say they don't know about it. Nowadays with intelligence services we know everything. Governments knows who in their country is producing child pornography.'
While discussing the situation in Afghanistan, Pope Francis quoted Russian President Vladimir Putin, mistakenly attributing the quote to German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
POPE FRANCIS
“[Angela Merkel said] It is necessary to put an end to the irresponsible policy of intervening from outside and building democracy in other countries, ignoring the traditions of the peoples.” Lapidary. I think this says a lot, each person can interpret it differently. But I felt there was a certain wisdom in what this woman said.”
The interview was conducted by Carlos Herrera, one of the most well-known journalists in Spain.
CARLOS HERRERA
Journalist
“It was very intense, because it's not every day you interview a pope. There was a lot of preparation since a pope doesn't give you an interview right away, you ask him for it. And then there was the actual meeting, the relaxation that comes from talking to a person who is accessible, approachable, who does not convey any tension while exchanging words or opinions, questions and answers.”
The Pope also seemed satisfied with the interview. As a souvenir, he was given an image of Our Lady of Candelaria, and was invited to celebrate Holy Week in Seville, Spain...But the Pope jokingly explained that he is usually busy that time of year.
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