But in an increasingly "fragmented and indifferent" world in which people choose to "isolate themselves from harsh realities" they'd rather not face, this task is becoming more and more difficult, he said.
Many people are "afraid of terrorism and of a growing influx of migrants fundamentally changing their culture, economic stability and way of life," the Pope said, explaining that these are understandable concerns which one can't "dismiss lightly."
However, although the fears have a rational foundation, "they must be addressed in an intelligent and creative way, so that the rights and needs of all are respected and upheld."
Efforts toward peace ought to first help people to stay in their homelands, he said, but noted that the present migration crisis requires incoming peoples to be helped and cared for.
"We must not allow misunderstanding and fear to weaken our resolve. Rather, we are called to build a culture of dialogue," the Pope said, explaining that by doing so, a full integration can be reached that both preserves the culture of the host country, and respects the traditions of incoming migrants.
"This is essential," Francis said, adding that if a mentality of misunderstanding and fear prevails, "something of ourselves dies, our cultures, history and traditions are weakened, and our own peace is compromised."
But if we are able to foster dialogue and solidarity at both the individual and collective level, "it is then that we experience the best of humanity and secure an enduring peace for all, as intended by our Creator."
Pope Francis closed his speech by sending a personal greeting to the pastors and faithful of each country represented, encouraging them to be heralds of both hope and peace in their communities.
He referred specifically to Christian and other minority communities who suffer persecution for their beliefs, assuring them of his "prayerful support and solidarity."
Elise Harris was senior Rome correspondent for CNA from 2012 to 2018.