Pope Benedict has called for a total global ban on the use of landmines.

Eighty percent of states have signed the 1997 convention banning anti-personnel mines. However, the United States, China and Russia are among 38 nations that have not signed the Ottawa treaty, which was the first global accord against landmines.

" ... These weapons, which continue to cause victims, including many children, should be completely banned," Pope Benedict said at his weekly Angelus blessing.