VATICAN CITY, NOV 16, 2003 (VIS) - Before praying the Angelus today at noon with the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope spoke about the terrorist attacks which took place on Wednesday and Saturday in Iraq and Turkey, condemning once again this type of activity:
'Once again, in recent days, terrorism has carried out its evil work, particularly devastating in Iraq and Turkey. As I continue to pray for the victims, I renew the expression of my spiritual closeness to all the families who mourn their dead. I express at the same time my heartfelt solidarity to all those who are involved in taking care of the wounded and repairing the damage caused. No one can give into the temptation of discouragement or vengeance: respect for life, international solidarity, observance of the law must prevail over hate and violence.'
The Holy Father also renewed his 'firm condemnation of all terrorist activity carried out recently in the Holy Land. I must also say that unfortunately in those places the dynamism of peace seems to be at a standstill. The construction of a wall between the Israeli and Palestinian people is seen by many as a new obstacle on the road toward peaceful coexistence. In reality, the Holy Land does not need walls but bridges! Without the reconciliation of souls, there can be no peace.'
'Let us entrust the people in that part of the world to the God of mercy and peace through the intercession of Our Lady. May leaders,' he concluded, 'have the courage to return to dialogue and negotiation, thus opening up the way toward a Middle East that is reconciled in justice and peace.'
ANG;ATTACKS; IRAQ; TURKEY;...;@ ;VIS;20031117;Word: 280;
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