In the afternoon of Monday 21 January 2019, the Holy Father Francis received in audience H.E. Mr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, prime minister of the Democratic Federal Republic of Ethiopia, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by the Rev. Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, under secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, the existing good relations between the Holy See and Ethiopia were highlighted. Subsequently the important current initiatives for the promotion of national reconciliation, and for the integral development of the country, were illustrated. In this context, the parties underlined the role of Christianity in the history of the Ethiopian people, and emphasized the contribution of Catholic institutions in the educational and healthcare sectors.

Attention then turned to the regional situation, peaceful conflict resolution, and the socio-economic development of Africa. Particular mention was made of Ethiopia’s efforts to bring stability to the Horn of Africa, with special reference to the recent agreement and the resumption of diplomatic relations with Eritrea.