Tunisia at the Vatican

Today, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience His Excellency, Mister Mohamed Moncef Marzouki, President of the Tunisian Republic.  Mister Marzouki also met with His Eminence, Pietro Parolin, the Cardinal Secretary of State, and with His Excellency, Dominique Mamberti, the Holy See's Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, various themes of common interest were reviewed, such as the promotion of peace, inter-religious dialogue and human rights, with particular reference to the defence of freedom of conscience and religious freedom, as well as the refusal of every form of extremism or violence. The Parties noted the commitment of the Catholic Church in social issues and the fields of health and education, in the service of all Tunisian citizens, especially the poorest and most in need.

Finally, various questions of an international and regional nature were examined, paying special attention to the situation in the Mediterranean Basin.