Pope makes veiled attack on Russia during Georgia visit

Pope Francis has called for nations of the world to respect international law and the sovereign rights of other countries – during a trip to Georgia where Russian troops are currently based in two pro-Moscow breakaway provinces.

The Pope was careful to not cause offence to the Russian Orthodox Church which normally has warm ties with the Vatican.

Speaking at a welcoming ceremony, Pope Francis made clear references to the situation in Georgia.

“[States] can never lay aside respect for the sovereign rights of every country within the framework of international law,” he said, Reuters reported.

Giorgi Margvelashvili, the Georgian president, responded by saying there was a strong desire for everyone to live together peacefully.

"But this mission cannot be accomplished in the light of violations of the rights of civilians and the territory being occupied by a neighbouring country," Mr Margvelashvili said.

Georgia became independent in 1991 and fought a short war with Russia in 2008.

Georgia has accused Russia of practicing "creeping occupation" but the superpower considers the contested areas of Abkhazia and South Ossetia to be independent states.