Bolivia at the Vatican

This morning, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received the President of the Plurinational State of Boliva, His Excellency, Juan Evo Morales Ayma in audience at the Vatican Apostolic Palace.  The Bolivian President also subsequently met with His Eminence, Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone, Secretary of State, and with Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the meetings, which were conducted in a cordial atmosphere, attention was focused on the socio-economic and religious life of the country as well as other issues such as the fight against social inequality and poverty.

Reference was also made to the decisive contribution of the Catholic Church in Bolivia, particularly in the areas of education, health care, family support and assistance provided to children and the elderly.

From the perspective of a culture of encounter, some discussion also took place about the importance of good relations between the Ecclesial community and the State, especially regarding issues of common interest in service to the entire nation.

Finally, the international situation was discussed, especially the subject of the promotion of peace in Syria and in the Middle East.