These are not "easy times", went on Benedict XVI at the Elysèe. "In particular, confronted by the risk of old mistrusts, tensions and oppositions between the nations raising their heads again, of which we are now the worried witnesses, France, which has traditionally been sensitive to the reconciliation of the peoples, is called to help Europe build peace within its boundaries and all over the world". It is important to "promote unity", not in the sense of "evenness" but "able to protect the respect of national differences and different cultural traditions", which are "an asset to the European symphony". "I am confident that your country will increasingly help make this century progress towards serenity, harmony and peace", said the Pope in taking leave from Sarkozy, ensuring him he will pray for the "beautiful French nation", "that God may grant it peace and prosperity, freedom and unity, equality and fraternity", through the intercession of the Virgin, the main patron of France.” ” ” “
