With the Governor General of New Zealand

Today, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the Governor General of New Zealand, Sir Jerry Mateparae, who subsequently went on to meet with His Eminence, the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions that took place, the Parties focused on a number of aspects concerning the social and economic life of the country, as well as the valuable contribution of the Catholic Church in various sectors of New Zealand society. There was also an exchange of opinions on the international situation, with particular reference to regional cooperation in various development programmes and participation in peace missions in different parts of the world.