VATICAN CITY, NOV. 21, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI expressed his concern for growing conflict in Somalia, and appealed to political leaders to find peaceful solutions.
The Pope launched his appeal for peace in that African nation at the end of today's general audience in St. Peter's Square.
"Distressing news is reaching us," he said, "concerning the precarious humanitarian situation in Somalia, and especially in Mogadishu, ever more profoundly afflicted by social insecurity and poverty. I am following the development of events with concern and appeal to all those with political responsibility, at both local and international level, to find peaceful solutions and bring relief to that dear people. I also encourage the efforts of those who, though facing insecurity and discomfort, remain in the region to bring aid and comfort to the inhabitants."
For its part, L'Osservatore Romano today denounced: "The drama in the Somali capital grows more and more: More than 150 thousand civilians have escaped in the last month and the humanitarian crisis is dreadful.
"To confront the disaster, UNICEF has announced the distribution of emergency aid to more than 100,000 displaced persons."
Somalia has not had a stable government since before its 1991 civil war.
ZE07112104 - 2007-11-21