Vatican City: In a busy and symbolically rich Friday morning at the Vatican, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV held private audiences with two prominent international leaders: President Maia Sandu of the Republic of Moldova and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of the Commonwealth of Dominica. The meetings, conducted in the Vatican Apostolic Palace and the Secretariat of State, underscored the Holy See’s ongoing commitment to fostering global dialogue, peace, and humanitarian cooperation.
The Pope received President Maia Sandu in a formal yet warm audience, marking a continuation of the Vatican’s diplomatic engagement with Eastern Europe. Following the private audience, President Sandu met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, alongside Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.
The discussions emphasized the appreciation for the positive bilateral relations already existing between the Holy See and Moldova, with both sides expressing a desire to further deepen cooperation. Central to the talks was the topic of peace and security at local, regional, and international levels, including an exchange on recent developments in Ukraine. Observers noted that the Vatican’s focus on diplomacy and humanitarian dialogue highlighted its role as a moral interlocutor in times of regional instability.
Shortly after, Pope Leo XIV received Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica in the Vatican Apostolic Palace. Following the private audience, Prime Minister Skerrit engaged in discussions with Cardinal Parolin and Archbishop Gallagher, reflecting the Holy See’s interest in Caribbean affairs and regional collaboration.
The talks celebrated the strong ties between the Holy See and Dominica, particularly highlighting the Church’s contributions in education, social assistance, and community development. Additionally, the leaders discussed socio-political challenges facing the Caribbean nation, including the societal impacts of climate change. Both parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to advancing cooperative initiatives aimed at promoting the welfare and development of the Dominican people.
These high-level meetings illustrate Pope Leo XIV’s continued emphasis on international dialogue and humanitarian engagement. By engaging with leaders from Moldova and Dominica, the Holy See reinforces its role as a bridge-builder across diverse regions, balancing spiritual guidance with diplomatic action. Observers note that the Pope’s meetings are part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral relations while addressing pressing global issues, from regional security to climate resilience and social welfare.
The Vatican Press Office highlighted that both audiences were conducted in a spirit of cordiality and mutual respect, reflecting the Pontiff’s longstanding commitment to fostering understanding, cooperation, and peace across nations.