Sri Lanka at the Vatican

Today, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, who subsequently met with His Eminence, the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin.

During the cordial discussions, the parties focused on the country’s current situation, with particular reference to signs of social and economic improvement, and conveyed their hope that solutions corresponding to the legitimate expectations of all citizens may be found.

In this context, the Parties expressed their hope that the Holy Father’s upcoming visit to Sri Lanka may be welcomed as a sign of closeness to the Sri Lankan population and may encourage those who work for the common good, reconciliation, justice and peace.