Catholic Information Service for Africa (Nairobi)
19 June 2008
Vatican — Congolese president Joseph Kabila held discussions with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on Thursday during which he invited the pontiff to visit the central African nation.
The pope has not visited any African nation since taking office three years ago.
A statement by the Vatican press office said discussions between the two leaders focused on the political and social situation in DR Congo, with particular reference to the eastern provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.
"The importance of respecting human rights was reiterated, in order to put an end to the suffering of the civilian population and build a more just and united society," the statement said.
"Regional aspects of the question were also considered, with the hope being expressed that the forthcoming implementation of the 'Pact on Security, Stability and Development in the Great Lakes Region' may mark a decisive turning point in the promotion of the peace and wellbeing of all inhabitants of the area."
On the future of the country, particular emphasis was given to the importance of the education and formation of the young, for whom the Church is always ready to make a contribution.
Other topics of joint interest were also examined, such as the importance of dialogue and collaboration and restoration of certain properties of the Church which were nationalised several decades ago.
"President Kabila invited the Holy Father to visit the Democratic Republic of Congo," the statement said.
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I advise to read the stage play by Rolf Hochhut "The Representative". It deals about Pope Pius sanctifying Hitler's weapons. It seems as if vatican has never drwan lessons from this.I feel ashamed when a German pope shakes hands with such a blood thirsty figure! The church has loaded much guilt on its back when colonialising Africa. Only a Belgian court recently condemmed some nuns involved in Ruanda genozide. S.