This morning, the Holy Father received in audience His Excellency Mr. Robert Golob, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, 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 in the Secretariat of State, appreciation was expressed at the existing positive bilateral relations and the intention to develop further collaboration in sectors of mutual interest. Furthermore, the positive contribution of the Catholic Church to Slovenian society was highlighted.

Attention then turned to various themes in the international sphere, including the enlargement of the European Union to the countries of the Western Balkans, and the situation in Ukraine and its impact on the region.

From the Vatican, 17 December 2022