Pope says Pakistan needs to strengthen democracy

VATICAN CITY, June 1 (Reuters) Pope Benedict called on Pakistan today to strengthen democracy and guarantee freedom of expression.

''The principles of democracy assure the freedom to express political opinions publicly in a variety of ways,'' the Pope said in an address to Pakistan's new ambassador to the Vatican.

''I know your government is aware that the roots of political unrest and agitation within your borders must be addressed, and ways of sustaining civic democratic institutions must be strengthened.'' President Pervez Musharraf, the army chief who took power in a 1999 coup, has come under fierce criticism since moving to sack the country's top judge earlier this year.

Government opponents have called for the restoration of full democracy.

But Pakistani authorities are tightening rules to restrict live television broadcasts of opposition rallies, following their criticism of the powerful military.

The Pope said strengthening democracy would bolster national solidarity and encourage ''peaceful ways of reconciling differences''.

The Pope said he had ''deep respect and admiration'' for Pakistan's Muslim religious heritage, saying the fact both Christians and Muslims worship one God could inspire fraternity.

''It is this belief that moves us to unite minds and hearts as we work tirelessly for peace, justice, and a better future for mankind,'' he said.

Muslims around the world protested last year when the Pope made a controversial speech in which he appeared to equate Islam with violence. He later said he was misunderstood and on a visit to Turkey prayed in an Istanbul mosque.

REUTERS AM BD2058