Lebanon “represents a
message of freedom and respectful coexistence, not only for the region
but for the entire world,” said a statement issued by the Vatican Thursday
following a meeting between Lebanese President Michel Suleiman and
Benedict XVI in the Vatican.
Echoing John Paul II’s notion of Lebanon as
“a message”, the note reiterated the importance the Holy See attaches
to the Middle Eastern country.
Lebanon’s “message” stems from “the presence of
diverse Christian and Muslim communities.”
At the same time, “in such a
context the promotion of cooperation and dialogue among religious
confessions is ever more necessary.”
The Pope and President Suleiman discussed these issues
for 30 minutes during private talks held in French and without an
interpreter.
The Lebanese leader later met with the Vatican
Secretary of State, Card Tarcisio Bertone, and the Secretary for
Relations with States, Mgr Dominique Mamberti.
During the “cordial talks”, it became clear “that the
action by civil and religious authorities in educating people to peace
and reconciliation is of the utmost importance.”
Both leaders “expressed
hope that the formation of a new government [in Lebanon] would bring
the much desired stability to the nation, which is called to face
important domestic and international challenges.
During the talks, the
two men also spoke about the situation in the Middle East, in particular
with regards to recent events in a number of Arab countries. Both
agreed that it was urgent to settle the region’s still outstanding
conflicts.”
“Finally, the talks focused on the situation of
Christians in the entire region and the contribution they can offer for
the good of society.”
When he arrived for the audience, the president was
welcomed by Benedict XVI at the entrance of his private library.
Following the greetings, the Holy Father led the Lebanese leader to a
chair near his desk, talking about Wednesday’s blessing outside of Saint
Peter’s Basilica of the statue of Saint Maron.
At the end of the private meeting, the President
introduced his wife to the Pope, as well as his 28-year-old son and the
15-member delegation that accompanied him. No government minister was
included however.
The Lebanese leader gave the Pope a 17th century
incenser made of ivory and gold from the Lebanese Monastery of
Qannoubine.
The Pope reciprocated by giving his Lebanese guest a
Pontifical Medal.