This morning, the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, His Excellency Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, President of the Republic of Cyprus, 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 and International Organizations.

During the cordial discussions, which took place in the Secretariat of State, appreciation was expressed for the good existing bilateral relations and the intention to develop further collaboration in sectors of mutual interest, including the reception of refugees.

In addition, mention was made of the process of reunification of the island and the situation in the western Mediterranean and the entire region, in the hope that ongoing problems may be addressed through dialogue.