This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Excellency Mr. Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón, Prime Minister of Spain, who went on to meet 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.

The discussion in the Secretariat of State, which took place in a cordial atmosphere, enabled an exchange of views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest, with the aim of promoting a fruitful dialogue between the local Church and the governing authorities, as well as the various components of civil society.

Finally, attention turned to some matters of a regional and international nature, with special attention to ongoing conflicts, highlighting the importance of an urgent commitment in support of peace, as well as the serious migration crisis, especially in the Mediterranean and in the Canary Islands.

From the Vatican, 11 October 2024