Pope encourages Pakistani president to promote dialogue, tolerance

Published: 2004-09-30

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II urged Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf to continue to promote a climate of dialogue and tolerance in the tense region of South Asia. The pope met with Musharraf Sept. 30 at the Vatican for about 10 minutes of private talks. Afterward, the Pakistani leader had additional discussions with Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state. It was the first time the pope met with Musharraf, leader of a country where the Christian minority occasionally has been the target of extremist attacks. "In these times of turmoil and violence, I encourage you and your fellow citizens to continue to foster a spirit of dialogue and tolerance in your region," the pope said in brief remarks to the president. "It is only by acknowledging the need for mutual understanding among peoples, through a frank and open exchange of ideas, that the world can obtain authentic justice and peace," he said.

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