Pope discusses DRC conflict with Kabila

(ANSA) - Vatican City, September 26 - Pope Francis on Monday talked about the quest for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo at an audience in the Vatican with the African State's President Joseph Kabila "During the cordial discussions, the good relations between the Holy See and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were evoked, with particular reference to the important contribution of the Catholic Church in the life of the nation, with its institutions in the educational, social and healthcare spheres, as well as in development and the reduction of poverty," a Vatican statement said. "Particular attention was paid to the serious challenges placed by the current political challenge and the recent clashes that have occurred in the capital. "Emphasis was placed on the importance of collaboration between political actors and representatives of civil society and religious communities, in favour of the common good, through a respectful and inclusive dialogue for the stability of peace in the country.
    "Finally, the Parties focused on the persistent violence suffered by the population in the east of the country, and on the urgency of cooperation at national and international levels, in order to provide the necessary assistance and to re-establish civil co-existence.