Pope Francis: A Legacy of Papal Travel in Southeast Asia

Pope Francis' visit to Southeast Asia marks his longest trip as a pontiff and continues the tradition of extensive papal travel to the Asia-Pacific region, initiated by Pope Paul VI in 1964. This trend has seen successive popes reaching out to distant corners of the globe, emphasizing the Vatican's commitment to global engagement.

Pope Francis' visit to Southeast Asia, the longest trip of his papacy, exemplifies the ongoing tradition of papal travel to the Asia-Pacific region, a practice that began in the modern era with Pope Paul VI in 1964.

Pope Paul VI was a pioneer in papal outreach, becoming the first pope in over 150 years to leave Italy. His travels included trips to India, Australia, and other Asian countries, earning him the nickname 'the Pilgrim Pope.' Despite an assassination attempt in Manila in 1970, he continued to travel extensively.

Pope John Paul II further expanded these efforts, becoming the most traveled pope in history. His numerous visits to Asia included significant moments such as his emotional meeting with Mother Teresa in India. Benedict XVI and now Pope Francis have continued this tradition, with Francis visiting countries like Myanmar and Mongolia in his ongoing mission to foster global connections.

(With inputs from agencies.)