Sydney, Australia, Jul 20, 2008 / 21:53 pm
Pope Benedict departed Australia for Rome today after a busy eight-day stay. The Holy Father bid adieu by blessing Australia and holding a farewell ceremony with the Prime Minister (PM) Kevin Rudd, who announced that Australia will begin diplomatic relations with the Holy See for the first time.
When Pope Benedict entered the airport hanger, he was greeted with applause and the sight of Australian and Vatican flags.
The Holy Father thanked the Australian government and its authorities for their support of the World Youth Day activities.
“The Federal Government and the State Government of New South Wales, as well as the residents and the business community of Sydney, have been most cooperative in their support of World Youth Day.”