section_path: Positions on morality and politics/International relations/Israel
section_name: Israel
paragraph_text: Israel
  
  In May 2009, Benedict visited Israel. This was the third Papal visit to Israel, the previous ones being made by Paul VI in 1964 and John Paul II in 2000.
  
  In his farewell speech before leaving to Rome on 15 May 2009, his balance was expressed as follows:
  
  Let it be universally recognized that the State of Israel has the right to exist, and to enjoy peace and security within internationally agreed borders. Let it be likewise acknowledged that the Palestinian people have a right to a sovereign independent homeland, to live with dignity and to travel freely.
  
  In May 2009, Benedict visited Israel. This was the third Papal visit to Israel, the previous ones being made by Paul VI in 1964 and John Paul II in 2000.
  
  In his farewell speech before leaving to Rome on 15 May 2009, his balance was expressed as follows:
  
  Let it be universally recognized that the State of Israel has the right to exist, and to enjoy peace and security within internationally agreed borders. Let it be likewise acknowledged that the Palestinian people have a right to a sovereign independent homeland, to live with dignity and to travel freely.