Today, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV received in Audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, His Excellency Mr Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness, accompanied by the Reverend Monsignor Mihăiţă Blaj, Undersecretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions at the Secretariat of State, the good bilateral relations and the contribution made by the local Church to society were highlighted. The discussions then turned to the environmental and food-related emergencies associated with migration, as well as various social challenges, with particular attention given to young people. Furthermore, the importance of working to build peace and implement projects in the areas of education and development was emphasized

Finally, an exchange of views took place on several regional and international issues.

From the Vatican, 8 October 2026