NICARAGUA: BUILD A PEACEFUL, JUST AND UNITED SOCIETY

VATICAN CITY, MAR 13, 2004 (VIS) - This morning the Holy Father received the Letters of Credence of the new ambassador of the Republic of Nicaragua, Armando Luna Silva, and told him that on the occasion of his visits to that country in 1983 and 1996, he could attest to the fact that "Nicaraguans are a joyful, dynamic people, with deep Christian roots and a desire for a serene future in which all are able to benefit from constant development."

The Pope emphasized that despite the "many trials" that Nicaraguans have endured - natural disasters and internal problems - "there are reasons to be open to hope for a better future. There is greater solidarity not only among allied nations but also above all among citizens, conscious of the need to participate."

"While it is certain," he continued, "that foreign aid is necessary on occasions, we must keep in mind that Nicaraguans, with the rich qualities that characterize them, must be the main protagonists and architects of the daily building up of the country, committing themselves with vigor and persistence to overcoming difficult situations, so often aggravated by extreme poverty, unemployment and the lack of proper housing."

Referring to the problem of extreme poverty, the Holy Father encouraged the efforts of the government "to confront this evil that should not be considered endemic but rather a result of a series of factors that must addressed with decision and enthusiasm, so that quality of life can be truly be improved for Nicaraguans. Such efforts, united to the international community whose aid must be administered with transparent, honest and effective management, are proposals that are necessary to construct a peaceful, just and unified society, one that truly responds to the needs of Nicaraguans and which is compatible with their traditions." John Paul II added that "there is also an important factor in this fight against poverty, the eradication of corruption which undermines the just social and political development of so many peoples."

"In order to build up a more just and fraternal society, the guidance of Catholic social doctrine and the moral teachings of the Church will be of great help. ... We cannot walk toward true social peace," he concluded, "without an order in which the freedom of individuals is ever more solid and in which confidence in public institutions is stimulated in citizens for more active collaboration and responsible participation by all for the common good."
CD/LETTERS CREDENCE/NICARAGUA:LUNA VIS 20040315 (410)