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In his remarks following the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Francis expressed his joy at the release of Armenian and Azerbaijani prisoners, Vatican News reported.

“I look with great hope on this positive sign between Armenia and Azerbaijan, for peace in the South Caucasus,” the Pope said, while encouraging both nations, with their leaders, to conclude a peace treaty “as soon as possible.”

Pope Francis went on to ask for prayers for all peoples suffering from war. “We are heading toward Christmas: Are we able, with God’s help, to take concrete steps for peace?” he asked. While acknowledging the difficulties of resolving conflicts that have deep historical roots, the Pope invited everyone to follow the example of “men and women who have worked wisely and patiently for peaceful coexistence.”

A joint statement released by the Armenian prime minister’s office and the Azerbaijani presidential administration on 7 December said the two countries “reconfirm their intention to normalize relations and to reach the peace treaty on the basis of respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Azerbaijan said it would release 32 Armenian prisoners of war in exchange for the release of two Azerbaijani soldiers detained in Armenia.