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Holy See Press Office Communiqué: Audience with the President of the State of Palestine, 12.12.2024

Today the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Excellency Mr. Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, 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.

During the cordial talks, which took place at the Secretariat of State, reference was made to the good bilateral relations, highlighting the important contribution of the Catholic Church to Palestinian society, also in assisting in the very serious humanitarian situation in Gaza, where it is hoped that there will be a ceasefire and the release of all hostages as soon as possible.

Reiterating the condemnation of all forms of terrorism, the importance of reaching the solution for the two states only through dialogue and diplomacy was emphasized, ensuring that Jerusalem, protected by a special status, can be a place of encounter and friendship between the three great monotheistic religions.

Finally, the hope was expressed that the Jubilee of 2025 may lead to the return of pilgrims in the Holy Land, which longs so much for peace.

From the Vatican, 12 December 2024