Jordan Anti Mine Campaign Welcomes Papal Support

(19 Nov 07 – RV) Pope Benedict yesterday called for a total global ban on the use of landmines, giving his support to a conference of nations that have banned landmines which opens in Jordan yesterday.

Eighty percent of states have signed the 1997 convention banning antipersonnel mines. However, the United States, China and Russia are among 38 nations that have not signed the Ottawa
treaty, which was the first global accord against landmines.

Steve Goose is the head of the delegation of the International Campaign to ban landmines. He said the support of the Holy See has been crucial in achieving their aims.