Acta Francisci Pp. 175

Mr President, distinguished authorities, dear friends:

As I begin my visit to this country, I cannot fail to mention the Philip-

pines' important role in fostering understanding and cooperation among the

countries of Asia. I would also mention the oft-neglected yet real contribu-

tion of Filipinos of the diaspora to the life and welfare of the societies in

which they live. It is precisely in the light of the rich cultural and religious

heritage of which your country is proud that I leave you with a challenge

and a word of prayerful encouragement. May the deepest spiritual values

of the Filipino people continue to find expression in your efforts to provide

your fellow citizens with an integral human development. In this way, each

person will be able to fulfill his or her potential, and thus contribute wisely

and well to the future of this country. I am confident that the praiseworthy

efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation between the followers of the

different religions will prove fruitful in the pursuit of this noble goal. In a

particular way, I express my trust that the progress made in bringing peace

to the south of the country will result in just solutions in accord with the

nation's founding principles and respectful of the inalienable rights of all,

including the indigenous peoples and religious minorities.

Upon all of you, and upon all the men, women and children of this

beloved nation, I cordially invoke God's abundant blessings.