Vatican City - Pope Benedict called for an end to discrimination against legal and illegal migrants on Sunday, but acknowledged integration was difficult.
Speaking to thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square, Benedict said global migration did cause problems but had to be embraced because it developed respect for other cultures and creeds.
"The Church is invited to grasp the most positive aspects that this 'sign of the times' brings, overcoming every form of discrimination, injustice and scorn for the human person, because every man is an image of God," he said.
Migration is a top political issue in Italy three months ahead of a general election.
The Northern League party, a member of the centre-right government, traditionally criticises illegal immigration to whip up support in its stronghold in the north.
Reforms Minister Roberto Calderoli, a Northern League member, said last year immigrants were naturally violent and should pay a bond to enter Italy.