DECLARATION ON THE POPE'S AUDIENCE WITH PRESIDENT BUSH

VATICAN CITY, JUL 23, 2001 (VIS) - Following is the text of the declaration made early this afternoon by Holy See Press Office Director, Joaquin Navarro-Valls, on the Pope's audience with U.S. President George Bush.

"This morning the Holy Father received in his summer residence at Castelgandolfo George W. Bush, president of the United States of America. After the private meeting, which took place in a climate of great cordiality, John Paul II greeted the First Lady, Laura Bush, and the president's daughter, Barbara.

"Afterwards, the president of the United States met with Cardinal Angelo Sodano, secretary of state, who was accompanied by Archbishop Jean-Louis Tauran, secretary for Relations with States.

"During the talks, they reviewed the most important matters at the center of attention of the international community. President Bush wished to communicate to the Holy Father his impressions of the recent G-8 summit in Genoa. Special attention was given to the situation in the Middle East. Also discussed were respect for human rights, including freedom of religion, especially in Asia; solidarity towards under-developed countries; and special attention for the poorest (nations)."

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