Pope encourages Syria to use influence to counter terrorism

Published: 2006-12-14

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI encouraged Syria to use its influence in the Middle East to counter terrorism and help bring an end to the "cycle of death and destruction" in the region. The pope made the remarks Dec. 14 when he accepted the credentials of the new Syrian ambassador to the Vatican, Makram Obeid. In a speech that was generally laudatory of Syrian efforts to promote dialogue and religious freedom, the pope offered his good wishes to Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and his prayers for the well-being of the country. In his remarks to the pope, the new ambassador said Syria rejects and condemns terrorism and has worked with the international community to curb it. The pope told the ambassador he was "glad to note your words about the Syrian government's commitment to counter this growing threat to peace and stability." He said, "The scourge of terrorism increases the fear and insecurity experienced by so many in the region today."

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