Simplify the following text for a Grade 9 native English-speaking person.
Original: The minister met with Knut soon after his zoo debut , commenting that although Knut was in safe hands , `` worldwide polar bears are in danger and if Knut can help the cause , then that is a good thing . ''
Simplified: Gabriel met with Knut soon after his zoo debut , and said that although Knut was safe , `` worldwide polar bears are in danger and if Knut can help the cause , then that is a good thing . ''