Trips to Croatia and Philippines Being Considered

KRAKOW, Poland, AUG. 19, 2002 (Zenit.org).- Papal trips to the Philippines and Croatia next year are being considered, though the Vatican isn't confirming anything yet.

One proposal calls for John Paul II to visit Manila next January, for World Family Day. A visit to Zagreb has also been considered by the Holy Father, for the beatification of two Croatians.

Vatican spokesman Joaquín Navarro-Valls told journalists here today: «Manila's invitation exists, and it is known that the Pope wishes to go.»

But nothing has been decided yet, the spokesman said. The program is open «both for the case of the Philippines as well as the trip that he should make in the spring to Croatia,» Navarro-Valls added.

ZENIT - The World Seen from Rome
19. august 2002