Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Excellency Mr Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland, who later met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

The cordial discussions took place in the context of the centenary of the birth of Saint John Paul II and the 40th anniversary of the founding of the independent autonomous trade union "Solidarność". Some topics of mutual interest related to the mission of the Church were discussed, including the promotion of the family and the education of young people.

Finally, attention turned to some international issues, such as the current health emergency, the regional situation and security.