Pope assures Spanish leader of Vatican's support for world peace

Published: 2004-06-21

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II assured the Holy See's collaboration with Spain on issues such as world peace and an end to terrorism. In an address to Spanish Prime Minister Jose Rodriguez Zapatero, the pope said the Holy See would continue to work with Spain "for the great cause of peace and to promote the spiritual progress of all people; to help in the eradication of terrorism and violence in all its forms; to address the legitimate needs of the human person, including his dignity, rights and freedom." The June 21 audience marked the first meeting at the Vatican between the newly elected Spanish leader and the pope. Zapatero was sworn in as prime minister April 17 after his Socialist Party swept the polls March 14. The surprise victory came days after terrorist bombings on crowded commuter trains in Madrid left 191 people dead.

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