Vatican City, Feb 21, 2008 / 09:01 am
With the recent turmoil in Serbia, Pope Benedict’s reception of the new ambassador from Serbia today gave him an opportunity to offer his assessment of the situation in Kosovo. The solution to the conflict embroiling the region must come from the values found in Europe’s Christian roots, the Pope said.
Vladeta Jankovic, Serbia's new ambassador to the Holy See, listened as the Pope spoke to him about the high value that the Holy See places on its diplomatic ties with Serbia. Through these ties, he said, the Vatican hopes “to offer encouragement to the continuing efforts to build a future of peace, prosperity, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence throughout the region, as Serbia and its neighbors seek to take their proper place within Europe".
Few countries in the continent of Europe escaped the ravages of war in the last century", said the Holy Father, "and all can learn from the lessons of the recent past.”
“As you work towards a more secure future,” the Pontiff said, “it is vital to remember that the identity and the rich cultural tradition of your nation, as of all European nations, is deeply rooted in the heritage of Christian faith and the Gospel of love".