Discourse of Pope Benedict XVI to the Ambassador of Turkey at the presentation of
Credentials
(January 7, 2010) “As a secular democratic state that straddles the boundary between Europe and Asia, Turkey is well placed to act as a bridge between Islam and the West, and to make a significant contribution to the effort to bring peace and stability to the Middle East”, said Pope Benedict XVI. He was addressing the Ambassador of Turkey, Mr Kenan Gürsoy, on the 7th of January in Rome as he presented the letters of credentials to the Holy See. The Pope said that the Holy See appreciates the numerous initiatives that Turkey has already taken in this regard, and is eager to support further efforts to put an end to long-standing conflicts in the region. The Pope referred to the fast approaching fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkey and the Holy See, a fruit of the pontificate of his predecessor Pope John XXIII who had himself served as Apostolic Delegate in Istanbul and expressed his confidence that these cordial relations will grow deeper and stronger as a result of continuing collaboration between two countries. The Pontiff then referred to his own personal visit in 2006 and recalled the warm welcome he had received. He said that within the secular Republic of Turkey, alongside the predominantly Muslim population, the Christian communities are proud to play their part, conscious of their ancient heritage and of the significant contribution they have made to the civilization. The Pope also appreciated the celebrations of the two-thousandth anniversary of the birth of Paul of Tarsus and for the steps that were taken to facilitate pilgrimages and liturgical celebrations. The Holy Father expressed his esteem for Muslims and to reiterate the commitment of the Catholic Church to carry forward inter-religious dialogue in a spirit of mutual respect and friendship, bearing joint witness to the firm faith in God that characterizes Christians and Muslims, and to strengthen the bonds of affection.
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