Today, 22 January 2024, the Holy Father Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Democratic Republic of East Timor, His Excellency Mr. José Manuel Ramos-Horta, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness, and with 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, the good existing relations between the Holy See and East Timor were highlighted, along with the contribution the Catholic Church offers daily to the country, emphasizing the good relations with the Authorities. Attention then turned to some aspects of the economic and social situation of the country and the problems caused in the region by climate change.

This was followed by an exchange of opinions on the international and regional situation, with reference to the countries of South East Asia.

From the Vatican, 22 January 2024