Poland at the Vatican

Today the Holy Father received in audience Her Excellency, Beata Szydło, Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, who subsequently met with His Excellency, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions the positive contribution of the Catholic Church to Polish society was emphasized. Particular reference was made to the Holy Father’s upcoming visit to the country during the month of July on the occasion of World Youth Day, and the recent celebrations in Gniezno and in Poznań for the 1050th anniversary of the Baptism of Poland, attended by His Eminence, Pietro Parolin, the Cardinal Secretary of State, who was there in the capacity of Papal Legate.

Attention then turned to various themes of common interest, such as the promotion of the family in the current socio-cultural context, and the reception of refugees. Finally, several themes affecting the international community were discussed, such as peace and security, the conflict in Syria and the humanitarian situation in Ukraine and in the Middle East.