NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      VATICAN (CWNews.com) -- Pope John Paul II today greeted the new ambassador to the Vatican from Costa Rica, and praised that country for making the choice to forego military development in favor of economic welfare and interventions on behalf of peace in the Latin American region.

      The Pope noted that the Church in Costa Rica has undertaken a number of projects in social development: on behalf of orphans, homeless children, AIDS victims, and women dealing with problem pregnancies. Recognizing the government's efforts to spur economic growth, the Pontiff said that "a better economic situation will benefit the poorest people most of all." He lauded Costa Rica's history as a country committed to the cause of peace, and a refuge for those who have been oppressed in neighboring lands.

      The new ambassador, Javier Guerra Laspiur, has served at previous diplomatic postings in Madrid, London, Paris, and Tirane.