Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday urged "diplomacy and dialogue" instead of arms in Libya and "solidarity" with refugees from unrest across the north African and Middle Eastern region. "In the current conflict in Libya, may diplomacy and dialogue take the place of arms," the pope said in his traditional Easter message.
Addressing tens of thousands of pilgrims gathered in a sun-drenched St Peter's Square and millions watching on television world-wide, the pope added: "In the countries of northern Africa and the Middle East, may all citizens, especially young people, work to promote the common good."
The pontiff urged people to "open their hearts (to) those fleeing conflict and to refugees from various African countries ... so that the pressing needs of so many brothers and sisters will be met with a concerted response in a spirit of solidarity."