NEW AMBASSADOR FROM MOROCCO WELCOMED BY HOLY FATHER

VATICAN CITY, MAY 3, 2002 (VIS) - Mohamed Sbihi, Morocco's new ambassador to the Holy See, presented his Letters of Credence today to Pope John Paul. In their speeches both men recalled that ties have existed between Morocco and the Holy See since the 13th century. The Pope emphasized that Morocco, given its geographic position, history and blend of peoples, cultures and religions, "can play a great role" in promoting dialogue for peace.

The Pope highlighted the many difficult situations throughout the world today, most especially in the Middle East, and stated that "the leaders of Nations and spiritual leaders as well have the duty to try ceaselessly to eradicate the violence that too often in our world dominates relations between men and groups." Leaders must also, he said, "clearly denounce all false legitimization of violence, especially in the name of religion."

He referred again to "the tragic situation in the Middle East, and the concerns that assail us about the holy sites of the region, especially the Holy City of Jerusalem, a symbol for the believers of the monotheistic religions." He appealed for the resumption of negotiations and "for everything to be done to end the armed conflict" which "gives neither prospects nor hope to the peoples present there."

"As I have already said," John Paul II stated, "neither the blind violence of terrorism, nor the violence of war can contribute to a solution."

He observed that Morocco has "the honor of a long tradition of tolerance and openness to religions, and the faithful of several religions live there in mutual respect, without harm to their basic freedoms, and showing that it is possible for believers of different religious traditions to live in peace in the same land." He added that Catholics "have their place in the life of the country and enjoy the population's esteem. They hope to work ... to build a world of justice and peace, in service to man and his development."

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