694 Acta Apostolicæ Sedis - Commentarium Officiale

reconciliation. May all of us dedicate these days to peace, to praying for

it and deepening our resolve to achieve it.

Dear friends, your efforts as political and civic leaders are directed

to the goal of building a better, more peaceful, just and prosperous world

for our children. Experience teaches us that in an increasingly globalized

world, our understanding of the common good, of progress and development,

must ultimately be in human and not merely economic terms. Like most

of our developed nations, Korea struggles with important social issues,

political divisions, economic inequities, and concerns about the responsible

stewardship of the natural environment. How important it is that the voice

of every member of society be heard, and that a spirit of open communi-

cation, dialogue and cooperation be fostered. It is likewise important that

special concern be shown for the poor, the vulnerable and those who have

no voice, not only by meeting their immediate needs but also by assisting

them in their human and cultural advancement. It is my hope that Korean

democracy will continue to be strengthened and that this nation will prove

to be a leader also in the globalization of solidarity which is so necessary

today: one which looks to the integral development of every member of

our human family.

In his second visit to Korea, twenty-five years ago, Saint John Paul II

stated his conviction that « the future of Korea will depend on the presen-

ce among its people of many wise, virtuous and deeply spiritual men and

women » (8 October 1989). In echoing his words today, I assure you of the

continued desire of Korea's Catholic community to participate fully in the

life of the nation. The Church wishes to contribute to the education of the

young, the growth of a spirit of solidarity with the poor and disadvan-

taged, and the formation of new generations of citizens ready to bring the

wisdom and vision inherited from their forebears and born of their faith

to the great political and social questions facing the nation.

Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you once more for

your welcome and hospitality. May God bless you and all the beloved Korean

people. In a special way, may he bless the elderly and the young people,

who, by preserving memory and inspiring courage, are our greatest treasure

and our hope for the future.