Pope seeks end to terrorism, resumption of dialogue in Philippines

Published: 2004-04-19

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II appealed to fighting factions in the Philippines to end terrorism and resume dialogue with the government. In a speech April 19 to the Philippines' new ambassador to the Holy See, Leonida Vera, the pope called on various factions to "embrace the path of dialogue, which alone will enable the people of the region to create a society that guarantees justice, peace and harmony for all." Several separatist groups -- mostly in the southern Philippines -- have been fighting government forces for decades. Many are engaged in a struggle for independence or greater Muslim autonomy and to bring attention to their cause have adopted extreme measures, such as bomb attacks or the kidnapping of civilians for cash. In his address to Vera, the pope said, "it is essential that the state continue to promote dialogue in society, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation among various religions."

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