Middle East

In the region where the abduction took place relations between Christians and Muslims are good, but it is on the border with Iraq. A community still speaking the language of Jesus still calls it home. The Turkish government was working for the return of those locals who had left it.

In a letter signed by Cardinal Bertone, Benedict XVI expresses his appreciation for the initiative by the Muslim scholars, inviting its initiator and a delegation of signatories to the Vatican. Jointly, both sides must promote mutual respect and acceptance amongst the younger generations.

Baghdad is providing buses to repatriate refugees from Syria. It is also offering financial incentives (US$ 800) to internally displaced families to return to their own homes. But United Nations warns that reverse refugee flow is largely due to desperation and refugees’ increasingly difficult economic situation rather than improved security.

First reactions to Bush’s conference are positive. Negative reactions by Iran and Hamas were expected. Israelis and Palestinians talk about an opportunity that should not be wasted, pledge their commitment to continue.

Supported by the town council, artists paint murals on the city barriers depicting scenes from the life and history of the city. A private company pays for a mural four kilometres wall, giving work to young art students.

Annapolis begins. The possibilities for success depend on one simple factor: commitment to peace negotiations that are open and sincere regarding the key issues of Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories and the definition of the state of Palestinian refugees. An invitation to avoid Oslo’s “errors”, when the “process” overshadowed the “peace”. The need to resolve the “Jerusalem problem”.

A meeting of the Pro Oriente Forum Syriacum highlights the long standing coexistence between the ancient Churches of Mesopotamia and Islam and how it can play a vital role in dialogue, Christian witness and cooperation.

One of lawyers for the victim’s families denounces a lynching campaign by local press, who he says are well informed of his every move. EU and American diplomatic representatives attend trial.

In a lengthy declaration the official states that the young women was married and therefore is an adulteress, she was in a car with a non-relative male – which is forbidden – and according to those who attacked her she was “indecently dressed”.

Maronite patriarch again voices his concerns about the country’s constitutional vacuum. On Saturday he met PM Siniora who said he is willing to work with him. General Aoun criticises the meeting, urging the cardinal to leave politics to politicians and focus on Church matters.

Monsignor Raho, in Rome with the delegation accompanying Cardinal Emmanuel III Delly at the Consistory, talks about the situation in the Sunni stronghold. Threats against Christians continue. For him it is increasingly apparent that there is a plan not to normalise the situation in Mosul; instead there is an international interest in keeping Iraq divided, ignorant and weak. He remembers Father Ragheed’s sacrifice.

Many bilateral meetings are taking place. Syria’s presence and divisions within Hamas are signs of Iran’s isolation, now only backed by Hizbollah. Israel’s stand continues to raise doubts about the meeting’s success.