Last evening, Pope Francis received, in private, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, «the meeting took place within the framework of the worrying political, social and economic situation that the country is going through, and that is having serious repercussions on the daily lives of the entire population.»
«In this way,» the communique added, «the Pope, who has the welfare of all Venezuelans at heart, wanted to continue to offer his contribution to the country’s institutionality and every step that will help to resolve the outstanding issues and build trust between all parties.»
Moreover, the Holy Father invited the parties «to show courage in pursuing the path of sincere and constructive dialogue to alleviate the suffering of the people, the poor first, and promote a climate of renewed social cohesion, which allows the nation to look with hope to the future.»
