AFRICA/SOUTH AFRICA - “We hope the Pope will continue like his predecessor to defend human rights and promote the cause of peace”. South Africans say after election of Benedict XVI

Pretoria (Fides Service)- “Catholics and non Catholics in South Africa hope the new Pope Benedict XVI will continue to work of his predecessor, John Paul II, to defend human rights and promote peace in the world” Comboni missionary Fr. Efrem Tresoldi told Fides. Fr Tresoldi is co-ordinator of the social Communications’ Office of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC).
“Having been one of John Paul II’s closest advisors, the new Pope will certainly continue his work of promoting respect for human rights, the right to life, defence of the poor and the weak, the problem of the burden of international debt in underdeveloped countries, promoting peace” the missionary continued. “The question of peace is very sensitive in Africa. We ask Benedict XVI to support efforts for peace undertaken by the in Africa”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 20/4/2005 righe 16 parole 167)