That's the title of this report; in fact, the Pope said he had a "deep respect for the Muslim community." Major difference. Respecting the right of any one person to adhere to any religion (or not), that is, freedom of choice, is one thing; respecting that which they choose to adhere to is something entirely different. "Respect for the Muslim community" coming from a Pope is logical; "respect for Islam" -- a creed that contradicts his own -- is not. More on this story. "Pope stresses respect for Islam, religious freedom," from AFP, May 8:
AMMAN (AFP) — Pope Benedict XVI stressed his deep respect for Islam on Friday in Jordan, on his first trip as pontiff to an Arab state, and also stressed that religious freedom is a fundamental human right.Responding to a welcome address from King Abdullah II, the pope said his visit "gives me a welcome opportunity to speak of my deep respect for the Muslim community, and to pay tribute to the leadership shown by His Majesty the King in promoting a better understanding of the virtues proclaimed by Islam."
"Religious freedom is, of course, a fundamental human right, and it is my fervent hope and prayer that respect for the inalienable rights and dignity of every man and woman will come to be increasingly affirmed and defended, not only throughout the Middle East, but in every part of the world," he said.
"I come to Jordan as a pilgrim, to venerate holy places that have played such an important part in some of the key events of Biblical history."