Honduras at the Vatican

This morning in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Republic of Honduras, His Excellency, Mister Porfirio Lobo Sosa, was received in audience by His Holiness Francis. His Excellency later met with His Eminence Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State, and with Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial talks, good relations between Honduras and the Holy See were welcomed good and appreciation was expressed for the gift of a statue of Nuestra Señora de Suyapa, Patroness of the Nation, offered to the Pontiff by the Head of State, which was placed in the Vatican Gardens. Discussions then focused on the valuable contribution that the Church gives to the country, especially in the areas of education and health, as well as in the fields of charity and the fight against poverty and organized crime.

Later on, the conversation touched on some ethical issues such as the defence of human life and the family. Consideration was also given to the importance of continuing efforts to promote reconciliation in the country and to the promotion of the common good.