Vatican City, Feb 2, 2009 / 09:30 am
Pope Benedict took the occasion of welcoming Hungary’s new ambassador Monday morning as an opportunity to encourage the country to defend the role of the family in Europe. In particular, the Holy Father highlighted the right of parents to be the "primary educators" of their children.
After Janos Balassa presented his Letters of Credence, the new ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See, was addressed in English by the Pope.
The Pope first spoke with Balassa about the "forces that govern economic and political affairs in the modern world," which he said need to be "built upon an ethical foundation, giving priority always to the dignity and the rights of the human person and the common good of humanity."
This task is one that Hungary is well-suited for by its "strong Christian heritage, stretching back over a thousand years," Pope Benedict pointed out. "Hungary," he added, "is well placed to assist in the promotion of these humane ideals within the European community and the wider world community, and it is my hope that our diplomatic relations will serve to support this vital dimension of your country's contribution to international affairs."