Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV welcomed Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for a private audience at the Apostolic Palace on Saturday, fostering dialogue between the Holy See and the southern African nation. The historic meeting emphasized the strength of bilateral relations and the shared commitment to social and humanitarian initiatives.
Following the private audience with the Pope, President Mnangagwa held talks with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations. According to the Holy See Press Office, the discussions highlighted collaboration between the Vatican and Zimbabwe, with a focus on the Church’s contributions to healthcare, education, and environmental stewardship within the country.
The high-level talks also explored broader regional concerns, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism, dialogue, and cooperative engagement among nations. Observers noted that the meeting underscored the Holy See’s ongoing role as a bridge for peace and development, while reinforcing Zimbabwe’s partnerships with international and religious institutions.
The private nature of the audience allowed for candid exchanges on political, social, and economic challenges facing Zimbabwe, while also celebrating the Church’s enduring presence and support in local communities. The Vatican described the encounter as a continuation of its mission to foster global dialogue, humanitarian collaboration, and mutual understanding between nations.