Pope calls for Libya talks

Pope Benedict XVI is urging diplomats to work for immediate dialogue aimed at suspending the use of arms by all sides in Libya.

Benedict said he is worried about the safety of civilians. He told pilgrims in St Peter’s Square today that diplomacy must take advantage of even the “weakest” sign of the desire for reconciliation.

He is urging international bodies and political and military authorities to immediately start a dialogue “that would suspend the use of arms”.