Zuppi: I will go to Moscow at the end of September. In the world people tend to lock themselves in an enclave to feel safe

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference (Cei), has confirmed plans to visit Moscow towards the end of September, according to statements made during an interview with Tg2 Post. The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about the Vatican’s role in international diplomacy, particularly regarding efforts to de-escalate tensions in conflict zones. Zuppi expressed his hope to return to Russia, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and engagement. He noted that the recent visit of Pope Francis to San Marino and Rimini underscored the Church's commitment to fostering communication and understanding. “The speech of the Pope,” he remarked, “has placed particular emphasis on dialogue, diplomacy, and meeting.” This sentiment aligns with broader Vatican initiatives aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation through interfaith and inter-state conversations. The cardinal also addressed the global tendency toward isolationism, describing it as contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. “In the world it is so easy to feel safe by closing oneself off into an enclave,” he stated, highlighting the need for openness and inclusion. Zuppi used the example of Ceuta, a Spanish territory in North Africa, to illustrate how communities can become insular despite their geographical location. He urged individuals and institutions to reject division and instead embrace unity and compassion. During an address at the Meeting of the World Council of Churches, Zuppi called for a shift from hostility to friendship. “Pope Leo has told us to go out, ‘go out to meet everyone,’” he quoted the pontiff. The cardinal emphasized that faith should not lead to exclusion but rather to active participation in addressing global challenges. “God continues to gather a universal family, especially in this season when the arrogant power of domination prevails,” he added. He warned against the dangers of self-centeredness and tribalism, which he described as opposing forces to the Church’s mission. Zuppi further explained that while the Church lives within the world, it does not belong to it, and thus carries a profound responsibility to engage with its complexities. “The Church cannot follow this path because it lives in the world but is not of the world,” he clarified. This dual nature, he argued, enables the Church to act as a bridge between conflicting parties and to advocate for justice and peace. His remarks reflect a growing concern among religious leaders about the increasing polarization and fragmentation of societies. Zuppi’s call for open dialogue resonates with similar voices from other faith traditions who have been advocating for greater cooperation in times of crisis. His upcoming trip to Moscow is expected to serve as a practical demonstration of these principles, offering an opportunity for meaningful exchange between religious and political figures. As preparations for the visit progress, attention will likely focus on the potential outcomes of such high-level meetings. Whether they result in immediate agreements or lay the groundwork for future collaboration remains to be seen. However, Zuppi’s public stance suggests a clear intent to promote unity and understanding, even in the face of geopolitical divisions.