Benedict XVI meets Sheikh Hasina. They discussed the contribution Catholics are making to human promotion and social life in the country.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) – Pope Benedict XVI and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met today in the Vatican following this morning’s general audience. They discussed the issue of human rights for “all citizens” and the contribution Catholics are making to the social life of Bangladesh. The prime minister subsequently went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.

“During the cordial discussions, opinions were exchanged concerning the current situation in Bangladesh, the principal challenges facing the country, and the efforts to promote a society that is ever more open to, and respectful of, the human rights of all its citizens,” the Vatican Information Service said in a press release.

“Furthermore, with reference to the regular contacts between the civil and ecclesiastical authorities, attention also focused on the positive and much-appreciated contribution the Catholic Church makes to human promotion and social life in the country, through her activities of education, healthcare and assistance.”

In Bangladesh, a predominantly Muslim country, freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution. However, Christians have been the victims on several occasions of abuse and violence.

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