Research into the Earth Charter archive revealed a historic greeting of Pope John Paul II to Mikhail Gorbachev, congratulating him on his work on the Earth Charter:

“To his Excellency Monsignor Angelo Comatri, Pontifical Delegate. Having been notified that Mr. Mikhail Gorbachev, the distinguished President of Green Cross International, is in Italy to present the project of the Earth Charter, the Supreme Pontiff requests your Excellency to express his satisfaction for a work well done in defending our environmental heritage, and to encourage this esteemed statesman’s meritorious effort to bring forth greater respect for the planet’s resources, given by God so that every person may live a dignified life. His Holiness sends his greeting and blessing.”

(Signed) Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, Sostituto, Secretariat of State, Vatican City State.” (Translation from original telegram sent by Archbishop Sandri on the occasion of Mr. Gorbachev’s presentation of the Earth Charter in Urbino, Italy on 2 July 2001.)