Benedict XVI acknowledged that he has been closely following the “delicate” situation in Egypt.

After the Sunday Angelus prayer on Feb. 6, the Pope expressed his hopes and prayers for the Egyptian people to find peace on the 13th day of protests in Cairo.

He said, “In these days, I follow with attention the delicate situation in the dear Egyptian nation.

“I ask God that that land, blessed by the presence of the Holy Family find tranquility and peaceful coexistence, in the shared commitment for the common good.”

The protests began on Jan. 25, when citizens took to the streets of the capital to demand the resignation of their president, Mr. Hosni Mubarak. He has agreed to step down, but not until September.

Church leaders are praying for a peaceful transition of power.