Israel-Vatican diplomatic pact nearing completion

March 16, 2009

A diplomatic agreement establishing the legal and economic rights of the Church in Israel is nearly complete, after years of often frustrating delays. It is unclear whether the pact will be finalized before the visit by Pope Benedict in May, but Bahij Mansour, who heads the religious-affairs section of Israel's foreign ministry, says: "We are 85-90% there."

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Israel and Vatican nearing agreement on tax dispute ahead of Papal visit (Jerusalem Post)