Just one month before Pope Francis’ July 5-13 apostolic visit to Latin America, he met today with the president of Chile, with whom he discussed the continent and the challenges it is facing.
According to a statement released by the Holy See, the Argentine Pontiff received the President of the Republic of Chile, Michelle Bachelet Jeria, at the Vatican, and during ‘cordial discussions,’ they discussed: «Issues of common interest such as the protection of human life, education and social peace.»
«In this context, emphasis was placed on the role and the positive contribution of Catholic institutions in Chilean society, especially in relation to human promotion, education and assistance to those most in need.»
The communique also stated that mention was made of existing good bilateral relations between the Parties, «in the hope that they may be further strengthened within the framework of the provisions of international law.»
The Chilean president subsequently met with Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
