Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
La Paz (Agenzia Fides) - The President of the Episcopal Conference of Bolivia (CEB), His Exc. Mgr. Oscar Aparicio, Archbishop of Cochabamba, has warned about the possible effects of the global economic crisis in the country, and expressed concern about corruption and the failure of justice, which he accused of being "highly politicized". Before the slowdown in global economic growth, "Bolivia is without exception (..), and this causes a certain fear", said Mgr. Aparicio in a note sent to Fides.
Opening the annual meeting of the Bishops of Bolivia, on April 15, the Archbishop of Cochabamba expressed the concern of Bishops regarding the possible consequences of the economic slowdown, and the consequences it could have "especially on those who are always punished in every crisis, namely the poorest and excluded from the development".
Mgr. Aparicio asked the Bishops not to pander to the attempts of politicians to justify corruption and contribute to its eradication, because this is expanding strongly, both in Latin America and in Bolivia. According to the local press, Bolivia expects to maintain an economic growth of 5%, one of the strongest in Latin America this year, according to forecasts of the Ministry of Economy.
The 99th Assembly of Bishops concludes today, Friday 17, with a Mass at the Cathedral. The main themes of the meeting were the Pope's visit and the situation of the Church in the country. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 17/04/2015)
