Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State, who also met with President Adami, reported that they had a «cordial» conversation about international relations.
They spoke about the contribution that Malta can give to the international community, especially in relation to Africa and the Middle East, due to its location on the Mediterranean.
The Vatican communiqué also reported that they spoke about «the recognition of the fundamental role of the Catholic Church in Maltese society,» reaffirming «the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Holy See and the Republic of Malta.»
Malta, an independent nation since 1964, became a member of the European Union in 2004. The country’s population is 98% Catholic.