A visit from Bosnia and Herzegovina

This morning, Monday 15 December 2014, at the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Excellency Mister Dragan Čović, Croatian member of the Collegial Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who subsequently met with His Eminence, Pietro Parolin, the Cardinal Secretary of State, accompanied by His Excellency, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the Parties focused on the situation in the country, with particular reference to the contribution of Catholics to the edification of society and especially their commitment in the field of reconstruction following the devastation caused by floods last spring. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the good bilateral relations, and several issues were discussed in relation to the application of the 2006 Basic Agreement, which governs the relationships and collaboration between the Church and the State for the common good.

Finally, various themes relating to regional and international politics were considered.