What is the program of Pope Francis in the United Arab Emirates?

After landing a few hours ago in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), takes place the first visit to the history of a pope in the Arabian Peninsula, cradle of Islam .

Before his departure, the Vatican Head of State published on his social networks: "Today, I am leaving for the United Arab Emirates, I am going to this country as a brother to write together a page of dialogue and walk together on paths of peace, pray for me! "

The truth is that Pope Francis has begun a three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he will seek to intensify interreligious dialogue, a program that will be deepened in March during his visit to the Kingdom of Morocco.

Fate is also explained because in this country, there is freedom of worship in all the churches built, but not in the religious one. In other words, you can attend mbad and exhibit crosses in public places, but proselytism is not allowed.

At the same time, the UAE plays an important role in one of the biggest conflicts and humanitarian disasters of today, such as the war in Yemen. In this sense, the UAE is part of the coalition that has been fighting the huthi since 2015 and is accused of regularly bombing schools, markets and homes.

It is in this line that the NGO Human Rights Watch He asked the pope to seize this opportunity to denounce the repression and the military campaign in which this country participates against the Yemeni rebels.

"Despite their statements in favor of tolerance, the UAE government has not shown a real interest in improving the living conditions of the population.The pope should use his visit to put pressure on UAE leaders, "said the director of the NGO for the East, Sarah Leah Whitson.

In particular, as indicated on the official sites, the agenda of the president will run between the next two days. At the end of his arrival, Monday's activities will focus on the welcome ceremony at the presidential palace, followed immediately by the visit. official of the Crown Prince.

In the afternoon, you will have a private meeting with members of the Muslim community. Council of Elders in the great mosque of Sheikh Zayed, and later the interreligious meeting in the Memorial of the founder.

Tomorrow, private visit to the country's cathedral, then mbad in the sports town of Zayed and finally the farewell ceremony will be held at the presidential airport of Abu Dhabi.