S i g n i s I n d i a

VATICAN, Nov. 23, 2009-- Benedict XVI called for peace and interreligious dialogue in the Middle East upon receiving in audience today the prime minister of Kuwait.

A Vatican communiqué confirmed that the Pope and Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah held "cordial discussions," and that they spoke of the 40-year history of "excellent bilateral relations" between the Holy See and Kuwait.

The communiqué noted that "consideration was given to certain questions of mutual interest, with particular reference to the promotion of peace and inter-religious dialogue in the Middle East."

"Subsequently, emphasis was given to the positive contribution that the significant Christian minority makes to Kuwaiti society, underlining the need for pastoral assistance to that community," it added.

Sheikh Nasser also met with Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Pope's secretary of state, who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Vatican secretary for relations with states.
Kuwait has nearly 2.7 million inhabitants, 85% of whom are Muslim. There are some 250,000 Catholics in the country. (Zenit)