Pope calls for calm in Lebanon, asks world to help
Source: Reuters
(Adds quotes, background) VATICAN CITY, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Pope Benedict on Sunday called on Lebanon to back away from a political crisis and asked the international community to help find urgent, peaceful solutions at this "grave moment". "I ask the Lebanese and their political leaders to have at heart exclusively the good of the country," the Pope said, calling for "patient and persevering efforts" and dialogue. Thousands of people descended on central Beirut on Sunday ahead of a mass rally called by the Hezbollah-led opposition to escalate their drive to oust Lebanon's Western-backed government. The Pontiff, speaking to thousands of pilgrims and tourists gathered in St. Peter's Square, also spoke broadly about the situation in the Middle East, where he said tensions had raised "fears of new violence". He said Lebanon's troubles were a source of particularly "deep concern". "I also hope that the international community helps to identify the urgent, peaceful solutions and balance necessary for Lebanon and the entire Middle East, while I invite everyone to prayer at this grave moment," the Pontiff said.
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