Pope Francis has called on ensuring a long-term resolution of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan through dialogue, RIA Novosti reports.

“I am still following with concern the renewed tensions of armed conflict in the Caucasus region between Armenia and Azerbaijan in recent days,” Pope Francis said before the recitation of the Marian prayer in front of a few thousand people present in St. Peter’s Square.

Pope Francis assured the people of his prayers for the families of those who lost their lives during the clashes and hoped that “with the commitment of the international community and through dialogue and the goodwill of the parties, a lasting peaceful solution can be reached”.