Keep the faith: Pope's message of hope for devastated Myanmar A true friend to Myanmar asks its suffering people not to plunge into the despair of those who no longer see a way out Published: May 17, 2021 04:04 AM GMT ▾ Updated: May 17, 2021 05:34 AM GMT Pope Francis is a true friend to Myanmar. Throughout his pontificate he has taken a close interest in the country, beatifying Myanmar’s first Blessed, Isodore Ngei Ko Lat, appointing Myanmar’s first cardinal, Charles Bo, establishing diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Myanmar, receiving Aung San Suu Kyi in the Vatican, and making the first apostolic visit to the country.