Pope Benedict XVI’s Discourse to the Ambassador of Egypt at the Presentation Ceremony

(November6, 2008) Egypt is a land of ancient civilization known worldwide for its monuments, its art and for its knowledge. It is a land of different peoples, cultures and religions built over thousands of years, renowned for its wisdom, knowledge and as the wealth of culture and still capable today to integrate novelty while retaining its specificity, said Pope Benedict XVI. He was speaking at the Presentation ceremony of the new Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Holy See on Thursday 6^th of November. The Holy Father showed his appreciation towards innumerable efforts of Egypt towards peace, harmony and just solutions and joins those of the Holy See which also seeks to encourage and promote the same. Religions can and must be factors of peace, he said. Egypt has already been at the forefront in the search for bridges between peoples and religions. The Pope added that Egypt has always been known to be a land of hospitality for the countless refugees, Muslims and Christians, who have sought safety and peace on its land. That this noble tradition will continue for the good of all. Stressing the importance of Dialogue the Pope said that it is essential to secure harmony between peoples, cultures and individuals. It is important to promote good mutual understanding and is an opportunity offered by God to bring together all religions and cultures. The Pope then extended his greetings to the Catholic community in Egypt. Although reduced in number, it shows the great diversity that exists within the Church and the possibility of harmonious coexistence among the major Christian traditions East and West. He said that he was convinced they will soon be given the opportunity to pray to God with dignity in appropriate places of worship on new places that have developed in recent years.