Pope calls for end to violence

POPE Benedict XVI yesterday appealed to a “shared Christian heritage” to implore all forces to end their fighting in Georgia and its South Ossetia province, which he said was creating “many innocent victims”.

“It is my fervent hope that all military actions cease immediately,” the Pope said.

The pontiff made his appeal following his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer before a packed square in the Italian north-eastern Alpine town of Bressanone, where he is on vacation.

He was following with “deep anguish” the escalating conflict that yesterday witnessed more Russian airstrikes and a naval blockade against Georgia, as international diplomats sought ways to bring a ceasefire in South Ossetia.

“Also in the name of a shared Christian heritage, refrain from more clashes and from violent retaliation that can degenerate in a wider conflict,” the Pope urged, adding that a resumption of peace talks was required.

“Together with our Orthodox brethren, we pray intensely for these intentions, which we trustingly deliver to the intercession of the Holiest Virgin Mary, Mother of God and all Christians,” he said.

He was referring to the Orthodox Christian religion of most Russians and Georgians.