This morning the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the president of the Republic of Montenegro, His Excellency Mr. Milo Ðjukanović, 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, appreciation was expressed for the good existing relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Montenegro, consolidated by the Basic Agreement of 2011, and the positive contribution of the Catholic community to Montenegrin society was highlighted.

Attention then turned to the situation in the country and on the process of European integration, as well as on themes of regional interest, including commitment to the promotion of interethnic and interreligious coexistence, and the protection of environmental heritage. Finally, there was an exchange of opinions on various international issues, with special reference to conflict resolution.