Pope Benedict XVI on Friday urged proper support for young migrants who could otherwise be exploited, in a message ahead of a day aimed at highlighting the plight of migrants across the world.

- It is my heartfelt hope that proper attention will be given to migrants who are minors - said Benedict.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church added that these young people needed - a social environment that enables and fosters their physical, cultural, spiritual and moral development. -

- Many are left to themselves and, in various ways, face the risk of exploitation - the pope said.

- Living in a foreign land without effective points of reference generates countless and sometimes serious hardships and difficulties for them, especially those deprived of the support of their family - he said.

The pope made the comments to draw attention to the plight of young migrants before the 96th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which takes place on January 17.

Also speaking on Friday, a Roman Catholic archbishop hinted at disapproval of a forthcoming referendum in Switzerland which could lead to a ban on the construction of minarets.

- If someone wants to be Catholic, he must be open to others - said Archbishop Antonio Maria Veglio, president of the Pontifical Council for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, when asked about the referendum.

The vote on Sunday, which was brought by a far-right party, has generated controversy with the country's government urging people to reject the call or otherwise risk tarnishing Switzerland's image.

Islam is the second largest religion in Switzerland after Christianity with 400,000 followers out of a population of 7.5 million. Four minarets have been built and the construction of a fifth is planned.