Pope Benedict XVI has called on South Africa to support nations in the African continent to achieve stability and progress and to strengthen its commitment for peace and reconciliation. While recognizing the role of former president Nelson Mandela in the progress achieved, the Pontiff said that South Africa's rapid and peaceful transition to democratic rule has been widely acclaimed and affirmed the Holy See's interest in the country.
"The size of your country, its population and economic resources and the generosity of your people make South Africa one of the most influential nations on the continent," he told George Johannes, the country's new ambassador to the Vatican last Friday, "this gives her a unique opportunity to support other African countries in their efforts to achieve stability and economic progress".
The pope said that countries like Rwanda, Angola, Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe have benefited from this assistance although the country should strengthen her commitment to other countries especially in these difficult economic times.
The Pontiff however lamented that poverty, lack of basic services and unemployment in some areas has given rise to many other problems.
"Undoubtedly there are many challenges encountered along this path, not least of which is the large number of refugees in the region, I am confident, however, that these difficulties can continue to be addressed in the same spirit of solidarity and generosity already demonstrated by South Africans," he added.
He warned that Corruption has the effect of discouraging business initiative and investment, as well as leaving individuals disillusioned.
On the same day the Pope also addressed eight new ambassadors representing Mongolia, India, Benin, New Zealand, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Namibia and Norway.
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SV (ED)