Pope Benedict XVI receives Governor-General of Australia

Pope Benedict XVI received the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, this Wednesday at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. A Communiqué from the Press Office of the Holy See says the Pope and the Governor General held cordial discussions, during the course of which they touched on a number of topics, including the contribution of the Catholic Church to Australian society, the treatment of refugees, and other themes of mutual interest were covered.

The Press Office statement goes on to say they discussed the current international and regional situation, with particular reference to natural disasters and environmental problems as well as interreligious dialogue.

After her meeting with the Holy Father, Bryce met with The Cardinal Secretary of State, Tarcisio Bertone, who was accompanied by the secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti.

Listen to Linda Bordoni’s report: