The ‘need’ to overcome all forms of discrimination based on religion emerged from meetings today between the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, and Pope Benedict XVI in Castel Gandolfo and Secretary of State cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, who was accompanied by the Secretary for Relations with States, Msgr. Dominique Mamberti reports AsiaNews A statement released by the Vatican Press Office states that " The cordial discussions provided an opportunity to examine the current situation in Pakistan, with particular reference to the fight against terrorism and the commitment to create a society more tolerant and harmonious in all its aspects. Talk then turned to the positive role played by the Catholic Church - continues the statement - in the social life of the country through her educational, healthcare and aid activities. Evoking recent episodes of violence against Christian communities in some localities, and the elements that have favoured such serious incidents, emphasis was given to the need to overcome all forms of discrimination based on religious affiliation, with the aim of promoting respect for the rights of all citizens". Pakistan Christian Congress PCC announced to hold All Christian Parties Conference on October 24, 2009, to decide strategy to launch movement to press upon government to repeal blasphemy law. AsiaNews further reports “The same argument was also addressed by Zardari in his talks with Italian politicians, in which the Pakistani president said the government of his country will take steps against the abuse of the blasphemy law. Moreover, on 18 September, during a state visit to London, Zardari had promised greater government vigilance, but human rights organizations in Pakistan say the president's words remain an unrealistic goal that ignores the reality of the situation.”