The pontiff, from his summer residence of Castelgandolfo, urged a political solution to the issue of illegal immigration that is comes from Africa to Europe. “Migration is something that has taken place since the dawn of humanity’s history, and has always been a feature of the relations between peoples and nations. The emergency which it has now become calls for our attention, and whilst it spurs our solidarity, it also requires a proper political response”.

Pope Benedict XVI expressed the pain caused by illegal immigration and urged governments and international organizations to work tirelessly to "remove the causes of irregular migration as well as to suppress at the roots of all connected forms of criminal activity. For their part European countries, or at least countries [who are the targets of] immigration, must develop joint initiatives and build joint structures that are more appropriate to the needs of irregular migrants”.

After the Angelus, the Pope spoke of increased illegal immigration from Africa across the Mediterranean, seen as a hope to escape situations that are "often unsustainable," which are then often "turned into tragedy."

“I know that many at the regional, national and international levels are involved in finding a solution to the issue of irregular migration. I applaud and encourage them so that they might continue in their worthy action responsibly and in a humanitarian spirit,” he added.

The Pope also stressed that countries of origin must show “ a sense of responsibility, not only because their citizens are involved, but also to remove the causes of irregular migration, as well as to eradicate, at the roots, all forms of criminality linked to it."

Finally, the Pope stressed: “As everyone’s Father I feel the profound duty to call upon everyone to become aware of the problem and ask for the generous co-operation of individuals and institutions in facing it and in finding solutions. May the Lord accompany us and make our efforts fruitful!”

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