(18 Nov 09 - RV) At the end of his general audience today, the Holy Father Benedict
XVI received Sheikh Hasina, prime minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.
She subsequently went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone
who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with
States. "During the cordial discussions, opinions were exchanged concerning the
current situation in Bangladesh, the principal challenges facing the country, and
the efforts to promote a society that is ever more open to, and respectful of, the
human rights of all its citizens. Furthermore, with reference to the regular contacts
between the civil and ecclesiastical authorities, attention also focused on the positive
and much-appreciated contribution the Catholic Church makes to human promotion and
social life in the country, through her activities of education, healthcare and assistance