OUAGADOUGOU: President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso has expressed his appreciation for the Catholic community's involvement in combating terrorism and has urged its leaders to further engage in youth awareness efforts. The announcement was made by the Minister of State in charge of the Civil Service, Bassolma Bazié, who extended the President's commendation to Catholic leaders during a meeting held on Friday in Ouagadougou. According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Bazié conveyed the President's gratitude, highlighting the Catholic community's readiness and responsiveness to national issues. The minister, representing the President, addressed prominent Catholic figures such as Laurent Dabiré, Archbishop of Dori and President of the Burkina-Niger Episcopal Conference, and Prosper Kontiebo, Archbishop of Ouagadougou. Bazié noted the Catholic community's pivotal role in preventing societal division despite terrorist attacks on places of worship. Bazié emphasized the President's encouragement for the Catholic community to persist in its efforts, particularly in fostering social cohesion and rebuilding societal unity once the threat of violence subsides. He underscored the importance of religious leaders in guiding young people away from the influence of terrorist factions, noting that economic vulnerabilities have made the youth susceptible to exploitation by such groups. Minister Bazié pointed out that some young people involved in terrorist activities were drawn in by deceptive promises, linking this to the critical need for employment opportunities that could otherwise divert youth from extremist paths. The President of the Burkina Niger Episcopal Conference, Laurent Dabiré, reciprocated the appreciation, acknowledging the government's efforts to foster unity and mobilization among Burkinabe citizens. Archbishop Dabiré reaffirmed the Catholic Church's commitment to promoting unity, cohesion, and benevolence, and pledged continued support for the President's initiatives. He outlined plans for intensif ied prayers, actions, and educational programs aimed at empowering the youth with patriotism and awareness to secure a promising future for Burkina Faso.