VATICAN, January 9, 2012 (WAFA) - Pope Benedict XVI Monday called the Palestinian and Israeli leaders to “adopt courageous and farsighted decisions in favor of peace,” according to a statement released by the Vatican Radio website.

The Pope, during his 'State of the World' address to the Vatican Diplomatic Corps, said he is pleased with the Jordanian initiative to resume dialogue and expressed hope that it will be maintained and will lead to a lasting peace that guarantees the right to the two peoples to dwell in security in sovereign states and within secure and internationally recognized borders.

“For its part, the international community must become more creative in developing initiatives which promote this peace process and are respectful of the rights of both parties,” added the Pope.