Vatican City, 17 March 2016 – Today in the Vatican Apostolic Palace the Holy Father Francis received in audience Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, president of the Portuguese Republic, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for Relations with States.

During the audience, the president’s first visit abroad following the inauguration of his mandate, satisfaction was expressed regarding the good relations between the Holy See and Portugal, as well as the contribution of the Church to the life of the country, with special reference to the debate in society on the dignity of human life and the family.

In the cordial discussions that followed, there was an exchange of views on the situation in Europe and the Mediterranean basin, especially regarding the question of migration and other issues of international relevance.