Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the president of Burkina Faso, His Excellency Mr. Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, 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 cordial discussions, the existing good relations between the Holy See and Burkina Faso were evoked, underlining among other things the important contribution the Church offers in the fields of education and healthcare. In this framework, the hope was expressed that bilateral relations can be consolidated thanks also to the legal tools provided by international law. Attention then turned to the importance of national reconciliation, respect and collaboration between the various religious groups, and the theme of young people and employment.

Finally, there was an exchange of views on some issues of international interest, with particular reference to the current challenges affecting the region.