Pope seeks 'dialogue' with faiths

Pope Benedict XVI confounded expectations today by saying he wants to reach out to other religions.

The newly elected Pope, who as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger denounced multiculturalism and was a staunch defender of the faith against militant Islam, said he wants "open dialogue" with other faiths.

Despite predictions he will protect Catholic orthodoxy, the German-born Pope also said he wants to unify Christians and to continue the reforms of the 1962-65 Second Vatican Council.

At his first mass as leader, the Pope said: "I turn to all, even those who follow other religions or who are simply looking for an answer to the question of life."

Pope Benedict, who has hardline views on abortion, homosexuality and contraception, said he felt his predecessor John Paul II guiding him.