Vatican City, Oct. 22 (AP): Pope Benedict XVI today appealed to political and religious leaders in Iraq and the world to help the conflict-ridden country in its reconstruction, and expressed solidarity with the Christian community and all victims of the violence there.

Benedict also sent his “cordial greetings” to Muslims.

“I perceive the great worry that runs through the Christian community and I intend to assure that I am close to it, as I am to all victims,” he said.