Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher visits Malawi

The Holy See’s  Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher has completed his visit to Zambia and is now in Malawi where he has met that country’s President. 

Archbishop Gallagher, on a three-day official visit to Malawi, Thursday met Malawian President Peter Mutharika at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre. He commended the Catholic Church in Malawi for its various development projects being carried out in the Country.
The Malawian President also extended his gratitude to Pope Francis for the help rendered to his country through the Church’s humanitarian and emergency relief aid during the floods that affected 15 districts in 2014/2015. He  commended Pope Francis’ gesture in reaching out to his people in a timely manner. 

President Mutharika further acknowledged the role the Church plays in the good governance of the country, saying it complements the common mission that the Church and state have of supporting the people.

“The Catholic Church has a long history of complementing democracy and meeting the social needs of the people by providing affordable education and health services,” President Mutharika said. He added, “We are indeed proud that one of the pillars of our democracy is freedom of religion and worship and for 49 years the Holy See has maintained diplomatic relations and has provided the government advice.” 
In his remarks, Archbishop Gallagher said most countries, including Malawi, are facing many challenges and disasters and the Holy See will continue to offer its support to the country.

(Episcopal conference of Malawi)

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