Albania at the Vatican

This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of Albania, His Excellency, Ilir Meta, who subsequently met with His Eminence, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State; and with Monsignor Antoine Camilleri, Under-secretary of the Section for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions the positive relations between Albania and the Holy See were discussed, including the contribution of the local Catholic Church to the benefit of the entire Albanian society, especially to youth.  In that context, themes of common interest were also raised, including the importance of promoting religious freedom and the peaceful coexistence and support for commitment in favour of inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue.

Focus was also placed on the development of Albania in relation to its integration in the European Union and some questions were examined in the international context, particularly the situation in the Eastern Balkans.