Saturday's meeting between the Pope and the president was characterized by "cordial discussions," the Vatican press office reported.
"On the question of the Middle East, particular attention was given to the Israeli-Palestinian question, to Lebanon, to the worrying situation in Iraq, and to the critical conditions being experienced by the Christian communities," the press office communiqué reported.
It continued: "On the part of the Holy See, hope was once again expressed in a 'regional' and 'negotiated' solution to the conflicts and crises afflicting the region. Discussions also turned to the question of Africa and its development, also with reference to Darfur, and there was an exchange of opinions on Latin America.
"Finally contemporary moral and religious issues were examined, among them those concerning human rights and religious freedom, the defense and promotion of life, marriage and the family, the education of the young and sustainable development."
The presidential entourage arrived at 11:03 in the courtyard of San Damaso.
The prefect of the papal household, American Archbishop James Harvey, welcomed Bush and his wife Laura, and accompanied them to the library of the Apostolic Palace, where the Pontiff had a private meeting with the president.
After greeting Bush, the Holy Father asked him about the G-8 summit. Bush replied that it had been a success.
Before their closed-door discussion, Benedict XVI also spoke with Bush about aid to Africa.
The Holy Father's conversation with Bush lasted more than a half-hour. Afterward, there was the traditional exchange of gifts: the Pope gave Bush a print depicting St. Peter's Basilica in the 17th century.
The president gave the Pontiff a white walking stick with the Ten Commandments cut in it in different colors.
Bush and the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, also spoke for about 40 minutes.
ZE07061003 - 2007-06-10