Ecuador at the Vatican

This morning at the Vatican Apostolic Palace, Saturday 16 December 2017, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of Ecuador, His Excellency, Mister Lenín Boltaire Moreno Garcés, accompanied by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State and His Excellency, Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the special role of Christianity in the formation of the identity of the country was evoked, and appreciation was expressed for the contribution of the Church. The importance of dialogue in facing the fundamental challenges of society was then highlighted. Attention then turned to themes of mutual interest such as respect for indigenous populations and their culture, and the protection of the environment.

Finally, there was a fruitful exchange of views on the political and social situation of the region, focusing on the efforts made to favour development and to promote legality.