Sarkozy meets with Pope Benedict

From the Vatican bulletino:

The Holy See Press Office released the following communique at midday today:

"This morning the Holy Father Benedict XVI received in audience Nicolas Sarkozy, president of the French Republic.

"The president subsequently went on to meet Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B., and Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.

"The cordial discussions provided an opportunity to examine a number of questions of mutual interest concerning the current situation of France. Mention was made of the good relations that exist between the Catholic Church and the French Republic, and of the role of religions, especially the Catholic Church, in the world.

"Particular attention was given to the international situation with reference to the future of Europe, the conflicts in the Middle East, the social and political problems of certain African countries, and the drama of hostages.

"At the end of the conversation, best wishes were exchanged for the forthcoming Feasts of Christmas and the New Year."

More on recent Sarkozy news from the Sydney Herald Sun.