Pope calls for political solution to Syria violenceDecember 25, 2012 - 16:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Pope Benedict XVI has called for a political solution to the violence in Syria during his Christmas message, the Urbi et Orbi, in Vatican City. In front of thousands of pilgrims in St Peter's Square, he called for all sides in the conflict to engage in dialogue. "I appeal for an end to the bloodshed, easier access for the relief of refugees and the displaced," he said. Activists say 40,000 have been killed in Syria since an anti-government uprising began early in 2011. The Pope said: "May peace spring up for the people of Syria, deeply wounded and divided by a conflict which does not spare even the defenseless and reaps innocent victims." He also prayed for concord in Nigeria, lamenting what "savage acts of terrorism" that frequently target Christians. And he urged China's new leadership to respect the contribution of religion in creating a "fraternal society". The Urbi et Orbi, which means "to the city and the world", is a customary part of Christmas for Roman Catholics. Christians of all denominations around the world are celebrating Christmas, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. In Bethlehem itself, Christmas Eve Mass was celebrated at the 1,700-year-old Church of the Nativity, on the spot where it is believed Jesus was born. On Monday, Dec 24, Christmas Eve Mass in the Vatican, usually celebrated at midnight, was brought forward by two hours to avoid tiring the 85-year-old pontiff. At the Mass, he urged Christians to "find time and room for God in their fast-paced lives". Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. |