Pope Benedict XVI’s Address to the Presidents of Chile and Argentina

(November 28, 2009) Pope Benedict XVI received Saturday, 28^th of November in the Vatican, the presidents from Argentina and Chile to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the peace treaty which avoided a full fledged war between the neighbouring countries. Argentinean President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and Chile’s President Michelle Bachelet met the Pope at the Apostolic Palace with full honours, considered “a rare and symbolic gesture from the Vatican”. The event recalls the 1984 Peace and Friendship Treaty signed by Argentina and Chile under the mediation of the Vatican which put an end to all border disputes. Pope Benedict XVI said: “The Treaty of Peace and Friendship, and mediation is inseparably linked to the beloved figure of Pope John Paul II, who, moved by feelings of affection for those dear Nations and in line with his tireless work as a messenger and peacemaker, did not hesitate to accept the delicate and crucial task of being a mediator in this dispute.” Looking back into the past twenty five years, Pope Benedict said: “We can note with satisfaction how this historic event has contributed beneficially to both countries, to reinforce feelings of brotherhood and a more vigorous cooperation and integration, as seen in many economic projects, cultural exchanges and major infrastructure works, thus overcoming prejudices, suspicions and misgivings of the past.” Speaking on the Treaty, the Pope said: “The Treaty of Peace and Friendship is a shining example of the strength of human spirit and the desire for peace against barbarity and irrationality of violence and war to resolve differences. The pursuit of peace, in effect, requires the promotion of a genuine culture of life that respects human dignity in its fullness, combined with strengthening the family together with combating poverty and corruption, access to quality education for all, a supportive economic growth, the consolidation of democracy and the eradication of violence and exploitation, especially against women and children.”