The Holy Father met with Ms. Alenka Bratusek, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, today in the Vatican Apostolic Palace. Prime Minister Bratusek also met with Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican Secretary of State, who was accompanied by Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, under-secretary for the Holy See’s Relations with States.
In a communique released by the Holy See, both parties discussed the “common desire to pursue constructive dialogue on issues pertaining to bilateral relations between the ecclesial and civil communities.”
Also, “particular reference was given to the Catholic Church’s historical contribution in the country’s life and to the importance that the protection of religious freedom has for the harmonious development of Slovenian society today.”
Among the challenges discussed by the Prime Minister of Slovenia and the Holy Father were the current economic crisis as well as ways that the Catholic community can collaborate with the state in social support and education for those affected.
