On Monday, November 23rd, Benedict XVI received in audience Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait. The Prime Minister subsequently went on to meet Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State, who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, mention was made of the excellent bilateral relations, which have existed for more than forty years, between the Holy See and Kuwait. Likewise, consideration was given to certain questions of mutual interest, with particular reference to the promotion of peace and interreligious dialogue in the Middle East.

Finally, emphasis was given to the positive contribution that the significant Christian minority makes to Kuwaiti society, underlying the need for pastoral assistance to that community.