Japan at the Vatican

This morning in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the Prime Minister of Japan, His Excellency Mister Shinzō Abe, 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, the good relations between Japan and the Holy See were evoked, as well as the understanding and collaboration between the Church and State in the fields of education, social welfare and healthcare.

The conversation then turned to several current regional and international themes, with particular reference to initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Asian continent, Japan’s commitment to cooperation for development, especially in Africa, attention to the environment, and nuclear disarmament.