Austria at the Vatican

This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of Austria, His Excellency Mr. Heinz Fischer, 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, after emphasising the positive bilateral relations between Austria and the Holy See, the Parties focused on themes of common interest, including the importance of promoting religious freedom and human rights, and commitment to inter-religious and intercultural dialogue.

Finally, various issues of an international nature were examined, especially regarding the situation in the Middle East.