This past weekend, the Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion, visited Italy as part of an international conference of mayors held in the city of Florence.
"The State of Israel will continue to preserve, nurture and develop Jerusalem while respecting all the different religions and beliefs. We welcome all pilgrims to Jerusalem, the holy city of God," he promised
He later addressed Pope Francis, who was unable to attend and said, "We will be honored to have the Pope visit us in Jerusalem and bring with him a message of peace and tolerance. Jerusalem will be honored to welcome him and you, my fellow mayors from around the world, with open arms."