The UN Secretary-General praised the commitment of Pope Benedict to inter-faith dialogue and the promotion of peace, in reaction to the Pontiff’s decision to step down at the end of this month.
Pope Benedict stunned the world on Monday by announcing his decision to resign as the head of the Catholic Church due to age and health issues.
The 85-year old pope was elected in April 2005.
Ban Ki-moon’s spokesperson said the UN Secretary-General expressed his appreciation for Pope Benedict’s profound commitment to inter-faith dialogue and to addressing such global challenges as the alleviation of poverty and hunger, as well as the promotion of human rights and peace.
He added that Mr Ban hoped that the wisdom demonstrated during his Pontificate may stand as a legacy on which to build further dialogue and tolerance.