Europe has "a unique responsibility in the world", but, if it wants to properly exercise it, "it must not sacrifice itself", especially its Christian roots; actually, it must gain even more "political relevance". The Pope ended his speech at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna by lingering on the "uniqueness" of Europe’s "call" to be responsible for the world. "The continent in which the population is rapidly ageing must not become a spiritually-old continent", warned Benedict XVI, according to whom "Europe will become more aware of itself if it takes a responsibility in the world that fits in with its unique spiritual tradition, its extraordinary abilities and its great economic power". As well as "playing a leading role in the fight against poverty in the world and in the commitment for the promotion of peace", the European Union should assert its "political relevance" in front "of the huge tragedies" of Africa, including "the plague of Aids, the situation in Darfur, the unfair exploitation of the natural resources, and the worrying arms dealings". Not to forget "the permanently serious situation of the Middle East", where "everyone must help promote a truly peaceful cohabitation".
