Pope says Ivory Coast needs truth, reconciliation after civil violence

VATICAN CITY - The people of the Ivory Coast have a right to know the truth about atrocities committed by both sides after disputed elections led to months of violence earlier this year, Pope Benedict XVI said.

Welcoming Joseph Tebah-Klah as the Ivory Coast's new ambassador to the Vatican Nov. 4, the Pope said the new government and all the country's people must make a firm commitment to promoting reconciliation between citizens who were on different sides of the dispute.

"The crisis the Ivory Coast went through included serious violations of human rights, and many casualties," the Pope said. Tens of thousands fled to neighboring countries and there were reports of hundreds of civilians being slain.

"Do not be afraid of the truth about all crimes and violations committed against human rights," the Pope said. "Peaceful coexistence will be possible only through the harmonious pursuit of truth and justice."

The key to social harmony is respect for human rights and, particularly, recognition of the sanctity of every human life, he said.

"The loss of any human life, whether great or small, rich or poor, is always a tragedy, but especially when man is responsible," the Pope said.

Pope Benedict praised the new government for adopting a "code of conduct" in August because, he said, "achieving the common good requires discipline, justice and transparency in governance."

Ivory Coast is a major exporter of cocoa and coffee and is relatively well-off economically. The Pope told the ambassador, "It is up to politicians to make every effort to ensure that the country's wealth equitably benefit all citizens."