President Mahmoud Abbas sent Monday a Christmas Congratulation letter to Pope Benedict XVI.

RAMALLAH – President Mahmoud Abbas sent Monday a Christmas Congratulation letter to Pope Benedict XVI.

He wished Pope Benedict XVI a merry Christmas and lifelong happiness, thanking him for his generosity during his recent visit to the Vatican.

President Abbas appreciated the role of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land as well as the Pope’s stance to achieve peace in the region.

He also said “we are all sure that his pontiff will save no efforts to put an end to the suffering and pains of our people which have lasted for decades.”