Pope Francis met with President of Benin, Mr. Patrice Talon, this morning.
According to a statement released by the Holy See Press Office this morning noting their discussions were cordial, it stressed that the parties evoked the good existing relations between the Holy See and Benin, further strengthened by the bilateral Accord signed in Cotonou on Oct. 21, 2016.
“The positive contribution of the Catholic Church in Beninese society, especially in the fields of education, healthcare and human development,” it said, was highlighted.
The parties, it noted, focused on the socio-economic situation of the country, with particular reference to matters of common interest such as development, the fight against poverty, reforms in process in the country and the importance of interreligious dialogue.
Attention turned to various themes of an international nature, with particular reference to the challenges that currently affect the region. Moreover, they recalled the important role played by the international community “in promoting peaceful coexistence and national reconciliation.”
After meeting with the Pope, the president met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher.
