Vatican City: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas visited the Vatican to discuss critical issues concerning Gaza, the Catholic Church’s role in the region, and the potential return of pilgrims to the Holy Land. During his visit, President Abbas had a 30-minute meeting with Pope Francis, followed by discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

The talks focused on the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with both parties emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire and the prompt release of hostages. The importance of the Catholic Church’s ongoing humanitarian efforts in Gaza was also highlighted, along with its significant contribution to Palestinian society.

The dialogue further touched on the necessity of achieving a two-state solution through diplomacy and dialogue, rather than violence, and stressed the importance of Jerusalem maintaining a special status as a shared space for the three major monotheistic religions.

Another key topic was the upcoming 2025 Holy Year, with hopes that the Jubilee celebrations might encourage the return of pilgrims to the Holy Land. At the conclusion of the meeting, President Abbas and Pope Francis exchanged gifts. The Pope presented the Palestinian leader with several items, including his message for the World Day of Peace and a bas-relief featuring the words "Peace is a fragile flower."

In return, President Abbas gave the Pope a painting of their meeting, as well as a depiction of the Pope’s visit to Bethlehem in 2014. He also presented an Icon of Saint Porphyrius, the patron saint of Gaza, a gift from Patriarch Theophilus, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem.