The Holy Father Francis received in audience today, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Republic of Benin, His Excellency Mr. Patrice Talon, who then met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

The cordial discussions evoked the good existing relations between the Holy See and Benin, further strengthened by the bilateral Accord signed in Cotonou on 21 October 2016. The positive contribution of the Catholic Church in Beninese society was also highlighted, especially in the fields of education, healthcare and human development. The parties then focused on the socio-economic situation of the country, with particular reference to matters of common interest such as development, the fight against poverty, reforms in process in the country and the importance of interreligious dialogue.

Finally, attention turned to various themes of an international nature, with particular reference to the challenges that currently affect the region.