Alexandrian Pope confers with President Girma
Addis Ababa, April 12, 2008 (Addis Ababa) - His Holiness Pope Shinoda III of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of Saint Mark expressed his desire for the enhancement of long-standing religious ties between Egypt and Ethiopia.

The Pope made the statement here on Saturday while conferring with President Girma Woldegiorgis at the national palace.

Pope Shinoda III said the formal relations between the two churches were stopped during the “Derg” regime due to the ideology of the regime, according to a religious father who attended the discussion.

Formal relations between the two churches resumed on July 13, 2007.

The Pope said the relation between the two churches in areas of development, churches cooperation and higher religious education should further be scaled up.

The Alexandrian Patriarch on the occasion appreciated the growth of Addis Ababa in various sectors.

Speaking for his part, President Girma expressed hope for the enhancement of the long-standing ties between the two churches, which dates back to 330 AD.

R-3:29-3:46 PM

E- 3:47-3:54

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Headlines
Meles holds talks with Alexandria Pope Shinoda III
Alexandrian Pope confers with President Girma
(c) The Ethiopian News Agency
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