Pope Francis meets with Angela Merkel

(Vatican Radio) This morning, Saturday May 18, 2013, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Federal Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel, was received in audience by Holy Father Francis. Afterwards, Merkel met with Mons. Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial conversation, the long history of relations existing between the Holy See and Germany was discussed, with emphasis on themes of common interest, such as the social, economic, and religious situations in Europe and in the world. In particular, topics of discussion included the protection of human rights; persecution of Christians; religious liberty; and international collaboration for the promotion of peace.

There was also an exchange of views about Europe as a Community of values and its responsibilities to the world, calling for the commitment of all civil and religious components to support a development founded on the dignity of the person and inspired by principles of subsidiarity and solidarity.