Pope Benedict travels to Israel
Pope Benedict XVI is due to arrive in Israel later today
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Monday, 11, May 2009 02:39
Pope Benedict XVI has arrived in Israel on the next leg of his tour of the Middle East.
The head of the Catholic Church will travel to Jerusalem, Bethlehem and the occupied Palestinian territories throughout the coming week.
The Vatican earlier claimed the trip to the region would attempt to encourage a better dialogue between Muslims and Jews as well as greeting minority Christian communities.
The Israeli president Shimon Peres welcomed news of the visit, stating: "The Pope will be a most honoured guest, welcomed and respected by people from all walks of life. His visit will be a moving and important event bringing the spirit of peace and hope."
Pope Benedict has described his visit, the firsts to the region in the four years since he was elected, as a "pilgrimage of peace".
Last week he travelled to Jordan where he warned of the manipulation of religion, suggesting it could lead to divisions and eventually violence.