Use weapons funds for development pope tells G20

(ANSA) - ROME, NOV 18 - Pope Francis told the Group of 20 summit in Brazil Monday that funds for arms should be diverted into development.
    "A long-term vision and strategy are needed to effectively combat malnutrition", the Pope emphasized in a message to the G20, read out by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.
    The 87-year-ol Argentine pontiff voiced the hope that "the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty can have a significant impact on global efforts to combat hunger and poverty." He said "The Alliance could begin by implementing the Holy See's long-standing proposal to redirect funds currently allocated to weapons and other military spending toward a global fund designed to address hunger and promote development in the poorest countries". (ANSA).