Pope Francis receives PM of Lithuania

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis received the Prime Minister of the Republic of Lithuania, Saulius Skvernelis, on Friday. A communiqué from the Press Office of the Holy See issued following the meeting says the Pope and the Prime Minister had cordial discussions, during which appreciation was expressed for the good state of bilateral relations and the positive contribution of the Catholic Church in Lithuanian society throughout the centuries.

The communiqué goes on to say that it was in this context, that mention was made of the recent beatification of the martyr to Soviet imperial Communism, Archbishop Teofilius Matulionis, which took place this past June.

The Press Office of the Holy See also reports that themes of common interest, such as the prospects for the future development of European integration, the emigration of the young and the reception of migrants, and peace and security at regional and international level, were also part of the conversation.

Skvernelis subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, Under-Secretary for Relations with States.