Apostolic Nuncio in Peru hopeful for peaceful and democratic elections

Lima, Peru, Jan 11, 2006 / 22:00 pm

Speaking on behalf of the entire diplomatic corps in Peru, the country’s Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Rino Passigato, expressed to the Peruvian government his hopes that the upcoming elections would take place in “peace and democracy.”

During a celebration at the Government Palace marking the commencement of a new year, Archbishop Passigato said the international community has an interest in seeing the elections scheduled for April 9 carried out with respect for democratic norms and with complete transparency, with the hope that those elected will lead the country on the path to human rights, justice and progress.

Noting that the different diplomats have no intention of interfering in Peru’s internal affairs, the archbishop underscored the desire of Peru’s friends “to see Peru free of every outbreak of terrorism’s plague of violence and that there would be complete peace and security for all citizens.”

He also recalled the message of unity which Pope Benedict XVI sent to the country.

On the other hand, Archbishop Passigato noted the decrease in the level of poverty in Peru was a positive development but that there was still much to be done.  The international community, he stated, “will not cease to support the national institutions that are honorably committed to improving the living conditions of the least fortunate.”