” “The integration of Cyprus in the European Union, the dialogue between cultures and religions for mutual reconciliation, the international scenario. These are some of the subjects discussed during the audience granted today by Benedict XVI to the president of the Republic of Cyprus, Tassos Papadopoulos. This has been relayed by the Vatican newsroom in a release of which we publish the full text below: "These friendly talks have made for an exchange of information and opinions about the current situation of Cyprus and future prospects, partly in the light of the commitment of the international community, paying special attention to the conditions in which the different Christian communities of the island live and work and showing with satisfaction the freedom which the Catholic devotees enjoy. With reference to Europe, they mostly lingered on the subjects of the integration of the Continent and a dialogue between cultures and religions that may promote mutual reconciliation. Finally, they did not fail to mention some aspects of the international scenario, in particular the reception given by the Republic of Cyprus to the refugees on the occasion of the recent conflict in Lebanon". After the audience with the Pontiff, the head of state met cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the secretary of state.” “
