While questioning the need for such an interaction, the Archbishop clarified that he was willing to talk to all sections of society to allay fears of missionary work in the country. Asked whether there was any connection between the Papal visit and the recent attacks on Christians, the Archbishop said the visit had been planned early last year after a meeting of Asian bishops in Rome. China and India were shortlisted for the visit by virtue of being the two most populous countries on the continent.
Conversion is a matter of choice.
While on the subject, he voiced his appreciation of the efforts being made by the Government to make the visit a success. Further, the Archbishop denied any move to cancel the visit. Most Indians welcome the visit. Those objecting to the visit represent a small section of the country's population. Another issue that came up for discussion pertained to the Mass at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Diwali morning.