Pope John Paul has told US President-elect Mr George W. Bush that he hopes the new administration will provide "clear direction and a sound ethical foundation."
The Pope made his comments in a telegram of congratulations to Mr Bush, who will be inaugurated later as the 43rd U.S. president at 4.30p.m. Irish time today.
"I pray that under your leadership the American people will discover in their rich religious and political heritage the spiritual values which will provide clear direction and a sound ethical foundation for building a society marked by authentic justice and freedom, with unfailing respect for the dignity and rights of each individual, especially the poor, the defenceless and those with no voice," the Pope said.
"I likewise ask God, the father of all nations, to guide your efforts to foster understanding, cooperation and peace among the peoples of the world," he added.
The Vatican and Mr Clinton clashed often over ethical issues, particularly abortion. The most public clash was at the 1994 U.N. Population Conference in Cairo, where the Vatican strongly objected to language in the final document which it said effectively approved abortion as a means of population control.
Although he did not emphasise the issue during the presidential campaign, Mr Bush opposes abortion except in case of rape or incest or to save the life of a pregnant woman. He has said he will cut federal funds for family planning services as well as ban overseas aid for organisations that provide abortion services.
Reuters