"May Hungary build a future with no oppression or ideological influence". This is the wish made by Benedict XVI in his message to the president of the Republic of Hungary, László Sólyom, on the occasion of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the Hungarian revolt (23rd October 1956). In the message, published today but dated October 7th, the Pope invites to welcome, over these days, his A Latere legate, card. Angelo Sodano, "with the same deference with which you would welcome me". Benedict XVI mentioned the repeated appeals made by Pope Pius XII, when, 50 years ago, "he insistently asked the international community to recognise Hungary’s right to self-determination". And he highlights how the Hungarian population, "despite the oppressions suffered along the centuries, the last one being the Soviet-communist one, has always respected the relationship between the State and the citizens, beyond any ideology". "In the Christian view highlights the Pope which has inspired the populations that have given life to the Hungarian Nation, the person, with its legitimate moral, ethical and social aspirations, comes before the State". The Pope concluded with the wish that the Country may keep "championing a proposed civilisation based on the respect of the human being and the primacy of its lofty fate".
