Liberia's President Visit Pope Francis

This morning Pope Francis received in audience at the Vatican the president of the Republic of Libreria, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.

The Pope greeted the president saying, "Welcome," in English. She replied, "I am so pleased. I am so pleased."

According to a statement from the Vatican press office, the 15-minute meeting centered on "the good relations between the Holy See and Liberia, and satisfaction was expressed regarding the positive progress made in strengthening the country’s democratic structures. Particular appreciation was shown for the Church’s commitment to peace and national reconciliation, as well as her important contribution in the fields of social welfare and education."

The statement added that the leader of the west African country and the Pope also spoke of the "current international and regional situation, with special reference to areas of crisis."

After her meeting with the Pope, she went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by the secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti.