Pope hopes America rediscover its "spiritual values and ethical principles" under Obama

In a telegram to US President Barack Obama, Pope Benedict XVI Tuesday prayed for blessing and wished the nation rediscover its "spiritual values and ethical principles" under the leadership of Obama.

"I offer cordial good wishes, together with the assurance of my prayers that Almighty God will grant you unfailing wisdom and strength in the exercise of your high responsibilities," the telegram said.

The text was made public a few hours before Obama was sworn as 44th president of the United States.

"Under your leadership, may the American people continue to find in their impressive religious and political heritage the spiritual values and ethical principles needed to cooperate in the building of a truly just and free society," the pope told Obama.

Benedict expressed hope on Obama's presidency, urging a society "marked by respect and dignity and rights of each... especially the poor, the outcast and those who have no voice."

"Upon you and your family, and upon all the American people, I willingly invoke the Lord's blessing of joy and peace," the pontiff concluded.