Venezuela in Rome

This morning, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, His Excellency, Mr. Nicolás Maduro Moros, who also met with His Eminence, Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone, the Vatican Secretary of State and Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, following his meeting with the Holy Father.

During the talks held this morning, which took place in a cordial climate, particualar attention was paid to the social and political situation in Venezuela, especially following the recent death of President Hugo Chávez Frías.  The Pope and the President also concentrated on some other problematic situations currently facing the country, such as poverty and the fight against crime and drug trafficking.

As the talks continued, reference was made to the historical presence of the Catholic Church in the country and its decisive contributions to charity, health care, and education.  Both agreed on the need for a constant and sincere dialogue between the Catholic Bishops' Conference and the political powers, for the good of and continuing development of the entire nation.

Finally, attention was paid to the broader regional situation, with particular reference to the peace process in Columbia.