About the invitation made by the EU Parliament to Benedict XVI, the president of the EU assembly, Hans-Gert Poettering, explains: "I do not think the Pope’s visit may take place during this term", which will end in June 2009. "I hope he adds that in future" the Pontiff "may speak at our assembly". Poettering then comments the rabbi’s speech: "It was a great contribution to dialogue between different cultures and faiths, that starts from the acknowledgment of the rights and dignity of every human being". But is there, behind the reassertion of such rights, a cultural elaboration that tends to make sure they are rooted in history and really "universal"? Sacks answers SIR: "Rights have developed over time. What we consider such today were not, for instance, in the nineteenth century. Then, the twentieth century has asserted further, essential rights. Now, they have to be protected in everyday life and in every country". "At the same time adds the rabbi , new questions arise. For instance: is it a right to take one’s own life? Well, we can find answers if we believe in man and in the common good", if we avoid biases and "build a future full of hope"
