Pope Francis met with President of the Republic of Paraguay, Mr. Mario Abdo Benítez, 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 Paraguay.
The statement noted that the importance of Christian values in the country’s past and present was emphasized.
“In this context, the significant contribution of the local Church in favor of the whole of Paraguayan society was highlighted,” it said.
The parties, it noted, focused on the situation of the country, with special reference to social development and support for the family, and combating poverty, corruption and drug trafficking.
Attention then turned to themes of common interest at international and regional levels.
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.
