The president of the Republic of the Seychelles visited Pope Francis at the Vatican on Thursday.
James Alix Michel subsequently met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, under secretary for Relations with States.
The Vatican reported that during the cordial discussions, satisfaction was expressed for the good relations existing between the Holy See and the Republic of the Seychelles. Mention was made of the Catholic Church’s contribution to the service of society, especially in the fields of welfare and education, and themes of common interest were considered, such as the dignity and full development of the human person and the protection of the environment.
Finally, there was an exchange of opinions on the socio-political situation in the country and in the region.
Seychelles is Africa’s smallest country, made up by islands in the Indian Ocean that are about 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.; it is 76% Catholic.