Pope Francis' European Visit: Focusing on Abuse Survivors and Migrants

Pope Francis arrived in Luxembourg for a short visit before heading to Belgium. The trip aims to highlight the needs of migrants and meet with abuse survivors. Despite knee and back pain, Francis is meeting local leaders and delivering speeches. His visit follows a recent tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania.

Pope Francis landed in Luxembourg on Thursday, marking a brief stop in one of Europe's smallest nations before continuing his journey to Belgium. His visit underscores the pressing needs of migrants and offers a poignant focus on the survivors of abuse by Catholic clergy.

The 87-year-old pontiff, who relies on a wheelchair due to knee and back pain, exited his flight via a mobile lift. At Findel International Airport, he was welcomed by Luxembourg's Grand Duke Henri, Grand Duchess Maria Theresa, Prime Minister Luc Frieden, and a group of approximately 100 schoolchildren dressed in maroon sweaters.

Francis will meet privately with Luxembourg's leaders and address the country's political authorities. In Belgium, he is scheduled to meet 15 survivors of clergy abuse. This visit follows a rigorous 12-day tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania earlier this month.

(With inputs from agencies.)