Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience the Prime Minister of the Republic of Portugal, His Excellency António Luís Santos da Costa, 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 at the effective collaboration in the organization of World Youth Day, and His Holiness’ visit to Portugal from 2 to 6 August 2023. The parties then focused on the positive contribution of the Church to Portuguese society in the current socio-political context, and on various matters of common interest.

There followed an exchange of views on the international situation, with particular attention to the consequences of the war in Ukraine and the phenomenon of migration.

From the Vatican, 28 September 2023