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Pope welcomes IRA statement

Pope Benedict welcomed today the Irish Republican Army's decision last week to end its armed campaign against British rule in the North of Ireland and urged all sides to take further steps for peace.

"It's fine news that contrasts with the painful events that we witness daily in many parts of the world."

The Pope said the IRA's formal announcement on Thursday of the end of its armed campaign had given "satisfaction and hope to that island and the whole international community".

"I encourage everyone, without exception, to follow the path set out with courage, and to take further measures to reinforce mutual trust, promote reconciliation and consolidate negotiations for a just and lasting peace."