Mother Teresa epitomises what the world needs: Prodi

Kolkata, Feb 12 (UNI) Offering prayers at the tomb of Mother Teresa, Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi today said Mother epitomises what the world need today--compassion.

Speaking at a gathering in Mother's House, the head quarters of Missionaries of Charity, Mr Prodi, who was accompanied by his wife Flavia Franz oni Prodi, ''Mother Teresa is an example of peace, compassion and sympathy.'' The Italian Prime Minister, along with his wife, had reached Mother's House at 1035 hrs. He was received by Assistant Superior General Sister Nichole at the gate, amidst tight security, as Sister Nirmala was is in Africa.

As the Prime Minister and his wife entered the Mother's House, the serene mileau of the House was vibrant with the welcome note "May God welcome you" to the abode of peace.

Mr Prodi and Ms Flavia Prodi then entered the Mother's tomb to offer prayers in Italian and lighted two candles. They were accompanied by Sister Nichole, Sister Prema and Sister Lisa.

The novice sisters sang a few hymns on the floor of the House.

Then Sister Nichole introduced Mr Prodi and Ms Flavia with the sisters. Sister Nichole said,''it is great joy for all of us that the Italian Prime Minister has come to Mother's house--home of Mother Teresa. She still remains with us and we remember her everyday.'' She told Mr Prodi that about 230 sisters and 180 novices stay in Mother's House and they serve the poor and the destitues.

He also met the Italian volunteers working here with the Mother House and enquired about their work here.

Mr Prodi and Ms Flavia were offered garlands by the sisters. Then they went around the Mother's House and the exhibition room. They also visited the Prayer room on the first floor.

The Italian Prime Minister and his wife were accompanied by several delegates from Italy. Media team from that country was also present.

Mr Prodi and his wife were offered a book on Mother Teresa, booklets of Missionaries of Charity and Mother's medalion and that of Mary.

Mr Prodi was theer at the mother house for 45 minutes, before leaving for Sishu Bhavan, an orphanage for the poor.

He will participate in a programme organised by Calcutta University today in the evening.

Mr Prodi started his five-day visit to India from Chennai on Saturday. He went to Bangalore and Mumbai before coming to Kolkata.

he will make his last stop at the nation's capital on February 14 where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and his top aides and ministers.

A string of seminars and meetings would be held in Kolkata under the aegis of the India-Italy Business Forum with business leaders of both countries getting the chance to have one-on-one meetings and strike deals.

UNI