DECLARATION CONCERNING HOLY SEE AND IRAN

VATICAN CITY, JUN 3, 2006 (VIS) - Holy See Press Office Director Joaquin Navarro-Valls released the following declaration at midday today:

  "A number of journalists have expressed a desire to know the Holy See's view on recent developments in international negotiations concerning the Iranian nuclear program.

  "Having duly informed itself, this Press Office is in a position to communicate that the Holy See supports, as it always does, any initiative aimed at open and constructive dialogue. The Holy See is firmly convinced that the current difficulties also can and must be overcome through diplomatic channels, using all means at the disposal of diplomacy.

  "It seems especially necessary that, though private contacts, those elements that objectively hinder mutual trust be removed, while never rejecting any sign of good will from the one side or from the other, and having care for the honor and sensitivity of each country. In this way, it will be possible to make steps of mutual rapprochement."
OP/HOLY SEE:IRAN/NAVARRO-VALLS                    VIS 20060605 (170)