In addition to conveying Imam Khamenei’s greetings to Pope Francis, Ayatollah Arafi stated, “After learning of my visit, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution sent his greetings to you. He praised your past record and your relationship with Latin America. He also praised some of the stances you have taken to better the relationship between Islam and Christianity and defend the oppressed. He emphasized that we expect you to continue your endeavors to defend the oppressed in the world, especially the people of Palestine and Yemen, and to adopt a clear, unambiguous stance in this respect.”
Ayatollah Arafi added, “Imam Khamenei expects that practical measures be taken to defend the people of Palestine. The issue of Palestine must be solved based on the Palestinians’ vote and an election with the participation of all Palestinians, including the followers of all religions who must determine the system of rule in Palestine.”
In this meeting, Pope Francis told the Head of Iranian Islamic Seminaries, “Convey my greetings to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the Religious Authorities and the religious leaders in Iran. We accept what the Leader of the Islamic Revolution has said.”