This morning, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in Audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, His Excellency Mr. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Portuguese Republic, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness, 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, mutual appreciation was expressed for the sound bilateral relations, as well as for the good relations between the State and the local Church. Attention then turned to the painful consequences and damage caused by Storm Kristin.

Finally, reference was made to the national and international socio-political situation, with particular attention to Portuguese-speaking countries, noting the importance of constant commitment to supporting peace in the world.

From the Vatican, 2 February 2026