VATICAN CITY, JUNE 11 (ZENIT.org)

    John Paul II expressed hope for the forthcoming summit between President Kim Jong-il of North Korea, and Kim Dae-jung of South Korea, scheduled to take place from June 12-14.

    "I join all persons of good will in congratulating the authorities of the two countries for this initiative, in the hope that the dialogue and the exchanges may contribute to the reconciliation of the two populations, to the reunion of families now separated for half a century, and to the renewed stability and prosperity of the whole Korean peninsula," he said.

    A few days ago, Polycarp Choe, national secretary of Caritas-Korea explained to the international agency "Fides" that the "summit is taking place at a most important moment for both countries and is very significant for both leaders. The government of the South will redouble the economic aid and cooperation with the North. We hope that, following the summit, contacts and visits will be possible between the North and South and that Caritas-South Korea will be allowed to act directly."

    "Only through generous effort in support of the common good will it be possible to overcome the difficulties and reach a positive result, which will be a motive for joyful hope for humanity," the Holy Father concluded. ZE00061107

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