This morning the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Republic of Austria, His Excellency Alexander Van der Bellen, 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, appreciation for the good relations between the Holy See and Austria was expressed.

Attention then turned to geopolitical issues, at European and international levels, and the parties highlighted the role of the Church in the promotion of solidarity in favour of peace and universal fraternity, and in the care of creation.

From the Vatican, 7 June 2021