Banish 'self-centredness', pope tells the world as it faces coronavirus

EUROPE'S DIVISIONS

Francis expressed particular concern for the future of Europe, saying it was vital that rivalries that existed before World War Two "do not regain force" as a result of the pandemic.

European Union nations are divided over how to help the continent's economy recover - with Italy and other eurozone members seeking the issuance of euro bonds backed by all, but Germany, the Netherlands and other countries opposed to this.

"The European Union is presently facing an epochal challenge, on which will depend not only its future but that of the whole world," Francis said.

That echoed a position by Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, whose country has suffered one of the highest death tolls from COVID-19.

"This is not a time for division," Francis said.

The pope repeated a call for a ceasefire "in all corners of the world", condemned arms manufacturing and said the pandemic should spur leaders to finally end long-running wars such as that in Syria.

He also appealed for help for migrants and others suffering from existing humanitarian conflicts.