Cologne, Germany, Aug 19, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Pope Benedict XVI addressed the issue of terrorism head on in his first meeting with 10 of Germany’s Muslim community leaders Saturday. He also reaffirmed his commitment to work toward improved relations between Christians and Muslims, which are “vital.”
The 6 p.m. meeting with Muslim leaders was held at the archbishop’s residence, where the Pope is staying during his four-day trip. Germany has about three million Muslims, mostly of Turkish descent.
“I am certain that I echo your own thoughts when I bring up as one of our concerns the spread of terrorism,” the pontiff said.
Terrorists, he said, “evidently wish to poison our relations, making use of all means, including religion, to oppose every attempt to build a peaceful, fair and serene life together.”