Pope receives president of Sri Lanka

This morning 8 June 2012 the Holy Father Benedict XVI received in audience Mahinda
Rajapaksa, president of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. The president
subsequently went on to meet with Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations
with States.
During the cordial discussions the parties illustrated the steps taken to favour socioeconomic
development, and reconciliation among the communities hit by the long internal
conflict which has affected the country. The hope was expressed that a global joint solution may
soon be found corresponding to the legitimate expectations of all the parties involved.
Finally, emphasis was given to how the Catholic Church - which makes an important
contribution to the life of the country with her religious witness and educational, healthcare and
social assistance activities - will continue to commit herself to the common good, reciprocal
understanding and the integral development of all citizens.