Vatican City, Apr 6, 2011 / 15:03 pm
Pope Benedict XVI described ongoing conflicts in the African countries of Libya and Ivory Coast as a “defeat” for humanity, in remarks following his Wednesday general audience.
“Violence and hate are always a defeat!” said the Pope. “I therefore make a renewed and heartfelt appeal to all parties to the cause, to initiate a process of peacemaking and dialogue, and to avoid further bloodshed.”
Pope Benedict said he continued to follow the “dramatic events” in Ivory Coast and Libya “with great apprehension” and prayer for those involved.
The Pope also offered an update of sorts about a peacemaking mission that he sent Cardinal Peter Turkson on to Ivory Coast. “I hope that Cardinal Turkson, whom I have commissioned to visit Ivory Coast to demonstrate my solidarity, may soon be able to enter the country.”