Pope calls for comprehensive solution to Syrian crisis

On Thursday Pope Benedict appealed for “real reforms” in Syria’s “political, economic and social life" as he received the new ambassador from Damascus to the Holy See, Hussan Hedin Aala. The Pope also reaffirmed his conviction that a comprehensive settlement for peace in the Middle East must be found “through dialogue and without prejudicing the interests of any of the peoples concerned”.

In his message to the Syrian Ambassador the Pope said; "the events that have occurred in recent months in some countries around the Mediterranean, including Syria, express a desire for a better future in the fields of the economy, justice, freedom and participation in public life”.

Hence the need for "real reform" and the hope that the situation does not evolve "in terms of intolerance, discrimination and conflict, much less violence, but in terms of absolute respect for truth, coexistence, legitimate rights of the people and communities, as well as reconciliation. These principles must guide authorities, taking into account the aspirations of civil society, as well as the international pressures”.

In his message, the Holy Father recalled the tradition of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians in Syria, hoping it would help to further growth and he also praised the "generosity" with which the country has welcomed refugees, in particular those from Iraq.

Regarding the situation in the region, he concluded that in order to achieve peace " a comprehensive agreement must be reached”. An agreement that should “not affect the interests of any of the parties involved nor be the result of a rushed and non-unilateral decision imposed by force”. This he said “would fail to bring any solution, as would partial or unilateral solutions, which are insufficient”.

“Aware of the suffering of all the populations involved, there is a need to proceed with a deliberately comprehensive approach that does not exclude anyone from seeking a negotiated solution that takes into account the legitimate interests and aspirations of the different peoples involved".