Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience Her Excellency Ms. Borjana Krišto, Chair of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

During the cordial discussions, which took place in the Secretariat of State, satisfaction was expressed at the positive bilateral relations and the contribution of the local Church to society. In this context, special mention was made of the situation of the Catholic community and some open questions regarding the relations between Church and State.

Attention then turned to the domestic situation of the Country, reiterating the need to promote legal and social equality of all citizens belonging to each constituent people, as well as the importance of inclusive dialogue between all political actors for the common good of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Finally, the theme of the enlargement of the European Union was addressed, highlighting with satisfaction the granting of candidate country status to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

From the Vatican, 3 April 2023