Pope receives president of El Salvador

(Vatican Radio) This morning in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father received in audience His Excellency Mr. Carlos Mauricio Funes Cartagena, president of the Republic of El Salvador. President Funes then met with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, S.D.B., accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial talks, satisfaction was expressed for the good relations between the Holy See and the nation of El Salvador. In particular, the Servant of God Archbishop Oscar Amulfo Romero y Galdamez of San Salvador, and the importance of his witness for the entire nation were spoken of.

Appreciation was also expressed for the contribution that the Church offers for reconciliation and the consolidation of peace, as well as in the areas of charity, education, and the eradication of poverty and organized crime. Some ethical issues, such as the defence of human life, marriage, and the family, were also discussed.