VATICAN - Message from Benedict XVI to the Make Poverty History march in Edinburgh in view of the G8 meeting: “people living in the world’s richest nations should be ready to accept the burden of the reduction of debts for highly indebted countries and urge their leaders to honour commitments taken to reduce poverty in the world, particularly in Africa”

Vatican City (Fides Service) - The Holy Father Benedict XVI through Cardinal Angelo Sodano, his Secretary of State, sent a message to the Archbishop of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, Cardinal Keith Patrick O’Brien, on the occasion of the “Make Poverty History rally” organised in Edinburgh in view of the G8 Summit on Wednesday July 6. In his message the Pope greeted the participants who, “share concern for the welbeing of millions of our brothers and sisters suffering from extreme poverty”. Referring to the teaching of Vatican II - “God destined the earth and all it contains for the use of all men and women and all peoples so that the goods of creation may be equally shared by all” (Gaudium et spes, n. 69) - the Pope said this is why “people living in the world’s richest nations should be ready to accept the burden of the reduction of debts for highly indebted countries and urge their leaders to honour commitments taken to reduce poverty in the world, particularly in Africa, by 2015.” Lastly Benedict XVI assured his prayers that the “participants at the rally and world leaders who will meet shortly at Gleneagles, may each play their part to guarantee a more equal distribution of the world’s resources”. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 4/7/2005 - Righe 15, Parole 229)