Pope Francis told bishops from Thailand and other countries in Asia on Nov. 22 to stand with and intercede for their people, especially those who are affected by economic inequality or who are victims of exploitation or trafficking.

“You have taken upon your-selves the concerns of your people: the scourge of drugs and human trafficking, the care of great numbers of migrants and refugees, poor working conditions and the exploitation experienced by many labourers, as well as economic and social inequality between rich and poor,” the Pope said in Bangkok on Nov. 22.

“In the midst of these tensions stands the pastor who struggles and intercedes with his people and for his people.”

Pope Francis met the bishops’ conference of Thailand and members of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences during a six-day visit to Thailand and Japan, where he flew on November 23.

He noted, in his speech, that the bishops of Asia “are living in the midst of a multicultural and multi-religious continent, endowed with great beauty and prosperity, but troubled at the same time by poverty and exploitation at various levels.”

Rapid technological advancement, though it can include increased possibility, can also create greater focus on consumerism and materialism, he stated.