Sierra Leone at the Vatican

The Holy Father, Pope Francis received today in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, His Excellency, Mister Ernest Bai Koroma, who then met with His Excellency, Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the good relations between the Holy See and Sierra Leone were evoked, as was the important contribution the Church offers to the material and moral reconstruction of the country, especially in the educational, social and healthcare sectors. After acknowledging the religious freedom, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between the various religious groups, attention turned to the importance of promoting national cohesion, emphasizing the richness of the various historical, religious and cultural traditions of the country, with respect for human and minority rights.

Finally, there was an exchange of views on a number of themes of international interest, with particular reference to the current challenges that effect the region.