Romania at the Vatican

This morning, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience His Excellency, Mister Victor Ponta, Prime Minister of Romania.  His Excellency also met this morning with the Cardinal Secretary of State, His Eminence, Pietro Parolin, and with His Excellency, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

The Prime Minister greeted the Holy Father on behalf of the Orthodox Patriarch Daniel. The cordial discussions focused on the themes of the family, education, religious freedom and the protection of common values, in a context of fruitful cooperation between the Holy See and Romania at a bilateral level and within the international community. In considering the potential of the Catholic Church for contributing to the common good of society as a whole, other open questions were discussed regarding the Catholic community in Romania. Finally, there was an exchange of opinions on the current international situation, emphasising the hope that the path of dialogue and negotiation may be followed to bring an end to the various conflicts afflicting the world.