Pope Francis Embarks on Historic Southeast Asia and Oceania Tour

Pope Francis arrives in Papua New Guinea from Indonesia, continuing an ambitious 12-day tour through Southeast Asia and Oceania. He was welcomed by local leaders and will address political figures in PNG while emphasizing climate change issues. His journey also includes stops in East Timor and Singapore.

Pope Francis arrived in Papua New Guinea on Friday evening from Indonesia, continuing his ambitious 12-day tour across Southeast Asia and Oceania.

The 87-year-old pontiff was met on the tarmac by Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and senior Catholic Church officials. Local children presented him with gifts, and a military band played the Vatican anthem.

After a brief airport ceremony, Francis headed to the Vatican embassy. His first public event is an address to political leaders on Saturday morning. He will also visit Vanimo before heading to East Timor and Singapore, returning to Rome by Sept. 13.

While in Indonesia, Francis urged leaders to combat religious extremism and signed a declaration with the national grand imam to confront climate change. In Papua New Guinea, where climate-related disasters have claimed lives, the pope will continue to stress environmental issues.

By the end of his longest overseas trip, Francis will have traveled nearly 33,000 km (20,500 miles).

(With inputs from agencies.)