This morning, 9 October, the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, satisfaction was expressed for the good relations and fruitful collaboration between the Holy See and Germany, and between the Church and the country’s institutions. Appreciation was also expressed for the positive interreligious and ecumenical dialogue, especially between Catholics and Protestants in the fifth centenary of the Lutheran Reformation.

Attention then turned to various questions of mutual interest, such as the economic and religious situation in Europe and in the world, with particular reference to the phenomenon of migrations and to the promotion of a culture of acceptance and solidarity.