The Pope has praised Morocco’s efforts to promote an Islam that rejects extremism as he began a visit to the north African country that has tried to distinguish itself as a beacon of religious tolerance and moderation in the Muslim world.
King Mohamed VI welcomed Francis to Rabat on Saturday for a visit aimed at encouraging Christian-Muslim ties and showing solidarity with Morocco’s ever-growing migrant community.
In a speech to the king and Moroccan authorities at the Hassan Tower complex, Francis said it is “essential” for all believers to counter religious fanaticism and extremism with solidarity.
He called religious extremism “an offence against religion and against God himself”.
As the Pope and King Mohamed VI made their way through Rabat to the complex, security agents tackled a man who broke through a cordon and ran towards the motorcades.
The man appeared to be waving an envelope as he tried to snake his way between the motorcade vehicles before being tackled. The king and Pope were apparently unaware of the incident.
During his 27-hour visit, the Pope will tour a migrant welcome centre run by the Caritas Catholic charity.
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