POPE RECEIVES PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS

Vatican City,  (VIS) - The Holy See Press Office released the following communique at midday today:

"This morning in the Vatican Apostolic Palace the Holy Father Benedict XVI received in audience Demetris Christofias, president of the Republic of Cyprus. The president subsequently went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B. who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.

"The discussions, which took place in a cordial atmosphere, served to highlight the good relations that exist between the Holy See and the Republic of Cyprus. Consideration was also given to issues of mutual interest, in particular the importance of dialogue and of respect for human rights, including the right to religious freedom.

"Since the Republic of Cyprus holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union, the parties also turned their attention to the situation in Europe. Finally, the hope was expressed that initiatives for dialogue and peace between the sides in conflict in the Middle East would achieve a positive outcome, with the contribution of the international community".