This morning, the Holy Father Francis received in audience the Prime Minister of Lebanon, His Excellency Mr. Najib Mikati, 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 talks at the Secretariat of State, emphasis was placed on the historical relations between the Holy See and Lebanon and on the important role played by the Catholic Church in that country. Reference was made to the situation that the Lebanese people are currently experiencing, in particular the political crisis and the socio-economic conditions, in the hope that justice, the necessary reforms and the support of the international community will help to improve the situation in the Land of the Cedars.

In addition, while reiterating the importance of promoting the concept of full citizenship for all the Lebanese, the importance of peaceful coexistence was emphasised, so that Lebanon continues to be a message of peace and brotherhood rising from the Middle East.

From the Vatican, 25 November 2021