Several Muslim envoys who attended an audience with Pope Benedict XVI this morning said the meeting had gone a long way to help end the controversy over his recent criticism of violent conversions to Islam.
The Iraqi ambassador to the Holy See, Albert Edward Ismail Yelda, said he was satisfied with Benedict's speech.
Khalil Altoubat, a member of the Italian Muslim community's liaison group with the government said the meeting had resolved many problems and that the controversy could now be closed.
The Pope said that Christians and Muslims must reject all forms of violence.
In what was his third personal attempt to defuse Muslim anger over his recent criticism of forced conversions to Islam, the Pontiff told them of his 'esteem and profound respect' for members of the their faith.
He was addressing the ambassadors and charge d'affaires from 22 countries at his summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome.
Pope Benedict told Muslim envoys that inter-religious dialogue was vital for the future.
The controversy was sparked by his remarks in Germany 13 days ago.
The Pope said he regretted causing offence and that the comments had been misunderstood.
Speaking in French, he said: 'There is an absolute need for an authentic dialogue in order to overcome difficulties.'
