VATICAN CITY - The Vatican says that Pope Benedict will meet with freed hostage Ingrid Betancourt as soon as his schedule permits.

The Vatican said in a statement today that the pope sent a telegram to Betancourt expressing his happiness that she was rescued from Colombian rebels, upon hearing the news.

It says her "understandable and noble desire" to be received by Benedict can be met as soon as his schedule allows.

The pope has moved to his vacation palace outside of Rome and is scheduled to leave for Australia on July 12.

The pope met with Betancourt's mother at the Vatican in February.

The French-Colombian politician was rescued Wednesday after six years as a FARC prisoner. She is scheduled to arrive in Paris Friday.

LIKE IT?  LET OTHERS KNOW

Thanks for participating!

Be the first to recommend - Sign in now


See what other people are recommending - Popular Stories