THE MEDITERRANEAN AND IMMIGRATION: POPE FRANCIS RECEIVES IN AUDIENCE THE PRESIDENT OF MALTA

Vatican City, 21 March 2014 (VIS) – Today in the Vatican Apostolic Palace the Holy Father Francis received in audience the president of the Republic of Malta, George Abela, who subsequently met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, mention was made of the deep imprints of Christianity in the history, culture and life of the Maltese population, as well as the good relations between the Holy See and Malta, recalling the pastoral visits made by Blessed John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Particular reference was made to the contribution of the Catholic Church in the fields of education and welfare, and the Agreements concluded between the Holy See and Malta with a view to fruitful collaboration in the service of the common good.

Finally, the Parties focused on Malta’s contribution within the European Union, as well as various situations in the Mediterranean region, and the phenomenon of migration towards Europe which involves the efforts of the Church and the government.