Vatican City, Nov 14, 2004 / 22:00 pm
Meeting with the Iraqi ambassador to the Holy See, Albert Edward Ismail Yelda, this morning, Pope John Paul II affirmed that the “entire Catholic Church” is committed to aiding the Iraqi people reconstruct their country and stressed the importance of inscribing the right to religious freedom and the principle of the defense of the dignity of all persons into law in order that they “become an enduring part of the living fabric of society.”
The Pope, who said he has been following the events in Iraq, asked the ambassador to assure the Iraqi people "of my ongoing concern for the many victims of terrorism and violence."
"Your ancient culture has been described as the 'cradle of civilization' and has boasted the presence of Christians since the beginning of Christianity itself," said the Pope in English. "Indeed, it has been a fine example of the many ways in which the adherents of different religions can live in peace and harmony."
The Holy Father said that “the rule of law as an integral element of government,” is essential to protecting the dignity of every person. “Preserving this fundamental principle is basic for any modern society that truly seeks to safeguard and promote the common good,” he said.