Iranian president expresses 'respect' for pope

Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said he respects Pope Benedict XVI, apparently downplaying the pontiff’s remarks on Islam and holy war.

“Regarding the issue of the pope’s comments, we respect the pope and all of those who are interested in peace and justice,” Ahmadinejad told a press conference in Caracas, Venezuela, as he ended a two-day visit.