VATICAN CITY, June 1: Pope Benedict XVI stressed the importance of protecting religious freedom on Friday as he greeted Pakistan's new ambassador to the Vatican. “A robust democratic society depends on its ability to uphold and protect religious freedom, a basic right inherent in the very dignity of the human person,” the pope told Ayesha Riyaz, according to a statement from the Vatican.

Benedict also commended Pakistan's “recent electoral reforms, which are aimed at facilitating the full participation of all citizens, including those belonging to minority groups.”

He continued: “I would also like to acknowledge recent legislative decisions in Pakis-tan aimed at eliminating unjust forms of prejudice and discrimination against women.” —AFP