JURISTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD PRESENT POPE WITH BOOK

VATICAN CITY, DEC 19, 2003 (VIS) - Today the Holy Father received a group of lawyers who, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his pontificate, presented him with a book of reflections and observations inspired by papal teachings. More than 420 lawyers from all over the world, including experts in Judaism and Islam, contributed to the volume, entitled "John Paul II: Paths of Justice."

The Pope said that he joined them in their "conviction that, in order to promote man and his dignity, and to pursue the common good and understanding among peoples, the only road to take is that of making the 'force' of the law prevail, with due respect for people of every culture, language and religion."

"This is what I wanted to emphasize in the Message for the upcoming World Day of Peace, recalling at the same time the importance and urgency of educating to peace. I hope very much," he concluded, "that this work may contribute to better demonstrate the fundamental duty to safeguard human rights, merits and also the limits of globalization and the value of European integration and peace."

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