Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV met with the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, on Friday morning at the Apostolic Palace, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the Holy See and the Middle Eastern nation.

Following the private audience with the Pope, President Aoun held further discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, who was joined by Monsignor Mirosław Wachowski, Under-Secretary for Relations with States.

According to a communiqué released by the Holy See Press Office, the meetings were held in a spirit of cordiality, highlighting the long-standing and constructive relationship between Lebanon and the Holy See. Particular emphasis was placed on the vital role the Catholic Church continues to play in Lebanese society, especially as a force for social cohesion and cultural dialogue.

The conversations also touched upon Lebanon’s ongoing efforts toward political stability and economic reform. Both parties expressed hope that these processes would usher in a new era of national unity, allowing Lebanon to reaffirm its identity as a land of interfaith harmony and sustainable development.

The dialogue concluded with a shared concern for the wider region, where the Vatican emphasized the urgent need to promote peace and reconciliation across the Middle East. Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of international support in de-escalating tensions and fostering long-term solutions grounded in justice and mutual respect.