Thousands March for Peace in Italy
The Associated Press
ASSISI, Italy (AP) -- Tens of thousands of people rallied for peace Sunday during an annual march between the two Umbrian hill towns of Perugia and Assisi.
This year, participants used the annual 13-mile march to vent their feelings about the U.S. military strikes on Afghanistan.
The march was noisy but no violence was reported. Politicians from Premier Silvio Berlusconi center-right coalition did not appear to have participated, but many from the opposition center-left coalition joined the walk.
The center-left has been split over the airstrikes being carried out in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.
Some, like former Rome Mayor Francesco Rutelli, who was defeated last spring for the premiership last spring, said the military campaign was necessary to fight terrorism. Others in the coalition have voiced reservations or flat-out opposition to the military bombings for fear of civilian casualties.
Meanwhile, at the Vatican, Pope John Paul II again appealed for peace. Speaking to thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square, John Paul said: "Because of the international situation, I invited all people and all communities to say the Rosary for peace. Today I renew this invitation."
He urged the bishops holding discussions in Rome this month at his invitation to be "builders of justice and peace. For such a peace all the world is praying in this hour, heavy with grave worries."
The Vatican has indicated that a "just war" could be conducted to try to stop terrorism but has said innocents should be spared.
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