It was believed to be the first time since he became pope in 2013 that Francis, who turned 84 last month, has been prevented by health reasons from leading a major papal event. It is a gift,” Francis said, adding that the response to the global coronavirus crisis showed the importance of burden-sharing. Francis highlighted in particular his worries about Yemen, which has been blighted by six years of violence that has pitted a Saudi-led coalition against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. At least 22 people were killed in an attack on Aden airport on Wednesday, which triggered a fresh round of coalition air raids. “I express my sorrow and concern for the further escalation of violence in Yemen, which is causing numerous innocent victims,” Francis said.

Source: bd News24 January 01, 2021 12:45 UTC