VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis, speaking in his general audience Wednesday, urged the faithful to forgive institutions and people who "close their doors" to refugees.

  His speech comes in anticipation of World Refugee Day, promoted by the UN and to be celebrated Saturday June 20. The pontiff spoke of refugees as those who “search for a life, a family, who want to be protected.”

  He continued by saying, “let’s pray for our many brothers and sisters who are looking for refuge far from their own lands", urging the international community to provide them with a home "where they can live without fear, so that their dignity will always be respected.”

  As Italy and the European Union face increasing tensions following the ongoing Ventimiglia crisis and challenges to the Dublin treaty, the pope invoked the international community to act in a unanimous and effective way to prevent the causes of forced migration, whilst praising those who already offer help.   

  On this note, the pontiff this Wednesday afternoon will also make a private visit to Centro Astalli, a Jesuit asylum seeker and refugee welcome and services centre, located in the centre of Rome. He is set to applaud their efforts and to hear the testimonies of various refugees housed at the centre.

  In response to the pope's plea, Northern League leader Matteo Salvini has posed the question "how many refugees are there in the Vatican?", whilst stating that he did not need the pope's forgiveness.