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In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pope Leo XIV met with US Vice-President JD Vance for "cordial" discussions at the Vatican. This meeting transpired shortly after Vance participated in Pope Leo's inaugural Mass, where he joined other dignitaries and numerous worshippers to witness the historic event.
Following his election as the first American pontiff earlier this month, Pope Leo has previously hinted at discontent with certain policies of the Trump administration, particularly regarding migration. However, the Vatican's official statement indicated mutual satisfaction with the state of US-Vatican relations during their Monday talks.
Key topics included religious freedom, cooperation between the church and the state, and pressing international issues, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also in attendance. The conversation highlighted the importance of humanitarian respect and legal adherence in conflict areas, while simultaneously advocating for diplomatic resolutions among involved parties.
The private audience lasted about 45 minutes and took place without media presence, but it was also confirmed that Vance had positive interactions with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, who oversees the Vatican's diplomatic efforts.
In February, Pope Leo’s social media account voiced criticisms concerning the Biden administration's immigration policies, including mass deportations, and it linked to discussions dismissive of Vance’s beliefs. Despite past criticisms, Vance expressed pride in the pontiff's heritage, stating, "Certainly, our prayers go with him as he starts this very important work."
As the world watches the evolving dynamics of the Vatican under Pope Leo’s leadership, discussions with influential American figures will likely play a crucial role in shaping the relationship between the church and the wider global community.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pope Leo XIV met with US Vice-President JD Vance for "cordial" discussions at the Vatican. This meeting transpired shortly after Vance participated in Pope Leo's inaugural Mass, where he joined other dignitaries and numerous worshippers to witness the historic event.
Following his election as the first American pontiff earlier this month, Pope Leo has previously hinted at discontent with certain policies of the Trump administration, particularly regarding migration. However, the Vatican's official statement indicated mutual satisfaction with the state of US-Vatican relations during their Monday talks.
Key topics included religious freedom, cooperation between the church and the state, and pressing international issues, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also in attendance. The conversation highlighted the importance of humanitarian respect and legal adherence in conflict areas, while simultaneously advocating for diplomatic resolutions among involved parties.
The private audience lasted about 45 minutes and took place without media presence, but it was also confirmed that Vance had positive interactions with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, who oversees the Vatican's diplomatic efforts.
In February, Pope Leo’s social media account voiced criticisms concerning the Biden administration's immigration policies, including mass deportations, and it linked to discussions dismissive of Vance’s beliefs. Despite past criticisms, Vance expressed pride in the pontiff's heritage, stating, "Certainly, our prayers go with him as he starts this very important work."
As the world watches the evolving dynamics of the Vatican under Pope Leo’s leadership, discussions with influential American figures will likely play a crucial role in shaping the relationship between the church and the wider global community.
