Vatican City, 27 May 2016 – Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience the president of the Republic of Costa Rica, Luis Guillermo Solís Rivera, who subsequently met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the good relations between the Holy See and Costa Rica were highlighted, and appreciation was expressed for the contribution that the Church offers especially in the fields of education, health, the promotion of human and spiritual values and charitable activities. Attention then turned to various themes of mutual interest such as the protection of human life, as well as problems of particular current relevance such as migration and drug trafficking.

Finally, mention was made of the regional situation and a number of international issues.