Vatican City, 6 Nov. (AKI) - Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday called for more Catholic churches in Egypt, to cater particularly for the needs of tourists. Benedict made the remarks during the presentation of Egypt's new Ambassador to the Holy See, Lamia Aly Hamada Mekhemar, the Vatican said in an official statement.

"In your country, the Catholic Church also wants to enter into contact with the many visiting Catholic tourists who wish to practice their religion," said Benedict.

"I am convinced that they will soon be given the chance to pray to God in a dignified fashion at appropriate places of worship in the new tourist sites that have come into being in the last few years."

"It would be a good signal to the world if Egypt were to favour relations of friendship and fraternity among religions and peoples, in accordance with its ancient and noble traditions".

Benedict also praised Egypt "as a land of hospitality for countless refugees, both Muslim and Christian, who have sought security and peace in its territory".

The pontiff then expressed the hope that "this noble tradition may continue for the good of everyone".

Benedict also spoke about the reciprocal understanding and respect that exists between Islam and Christianity and pointed out that although much progress has been made in this field, "there still remains a long way to go".