Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV received the President of the Republic of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, in a private audience at the Apostolic Palace on Monday, marking another milestone in the long-standing friendship between the Holy See and Lithuania. Following their meeting, President Nausėda also held discussions with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.
According to a communiqué from the Holy See Press Office, both sides expressed satisfaction with the “good and fruitful relations” that continue to characterize diplomatic ties between Lithuania and the Holy See. The discussions reflected mutual respect rooted in shared moral values, as well as Lithuania’s deep Catholic heritage, which continues to shape the nation’s identity within Europe.
The conversation broadened to cover pressing international matters, particularly the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Pope and the Lithuanian President jointly emphasized the urgency of pursuing diplomatic solutions to end the violence and suffering caused by the prolonged conflict. They also underscored the grave risks of escalation, warning of “unpredictable and dire consequences” should hostilities continue unchecked.
Beyond Ukraine, the talks touched upon broader themes of peacebuilding, regional stability, and humanitarian responsibility. Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace through dialogue and reconciliation, while President Nausėda expressed Lithuania’s readiness to continue supporting humanitarian aid and advocating for just peace efforts at the international level.
The cordial meeting concluded with the exchange of gifts symbolizing unity and shared commitment to human dignity and moral leadership. The encounter reflected both nations’ common pursuit of peace, justice, and the safeguarding of European and Christian values amid global uncertainty.