Pope Francis' gesture for peace in Southern Sudan that went around the world: he knelt and kissed the feet of rival African rulers

In the midst of a fragile peace process in southern Sudan, Pope Francis knelt and kissed the feet of rival leaders from the African country. "It's a call to mutual forgiveness", Explained the Holy See Friday.

This unprecedented act took place at the end of the two days of the meeting of the African leaders of the Vatican. At the end of the spiritual retreat, the Sovereign Pontiff asked the President of South Sudan and the Leader of the Opposition continue with the peace agreement despite the growing difficulties.

"I hope that hostilities will finally stop, that the armistice be respectedthe political and ethnic divisions are overcome and there is a lasting peace for the common good of all citizens who dream of starting to build the nation, "said the Pope.

The meeting brought together President Salva Kiir and Opposition Leader Riek Machar. The three vice presidents of Kiir were also present. The pope kissed everyone's feet.

South Sudanese leaders they have not made any statements after the Pope's request.

War, death and disagreements

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and, in 2013, the country was plunged into a bloody civil war, which left at least 400,000 dead.

The meeting is held one month before the end of the pre-transition period of the peace agreement. May 12, the Leader of the Opposition Machar must return to South Sudan and serve again as Kiir's vice president.

However, the agreement signed in September in Khartoum, capital of Sudan, has had positive effects. setback as violations of deadlines and the continuation of battles.