Pope hopes more nations establish diplomatic ties with Vatican

Published: 2005-05-12

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In his first meeting with the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See, Pope Benedict XVI said he hoped countries that still do not have formal ties with the Vatican gain representation soon. In his May 12 speech to diplomats, the pope noted that some countries that do not have formal relations with the Holy See still sent representatives to Pope John Paul II's April 8 funeral and the new pontiff's April 24 installation. Pope Benedict said he "appreciated such gestures" and expressed his "wish to see them represented to the Apostolic See as soon as possible." The pope also reminded nations the world over that the church "will continue to offer its collaboration to safeguard human dignity and promote the common good."

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