Vatican City (AsiaNews) - Pope Francis today welcomed the President of Lebanon Michel Sleiman in the Vatican. The Lebanese leader later met with Card Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone and Secretary for Relations with States Mgr Dominique Mamberti. During the meetings, discussions centred on the Syrian conflict, and a request for humanitarian assistance for refugees. Participants also expressed for hope for a "rapid and profitable" resumption of peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians and stressed the importance of dialogue among Lebanon's various ethnic, religious and political groups. Following
"During the cordial talks," said a Vatican statement released afterwards, "discussion touched on the situation in the country, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration among the members of the various ethnic and religious communities that make up the nation's society and constitute its richness. Likewise, the common good, development, and the nation's stability were also considered. In that regard, best wishes were expressed for the formation of a new government that will have to face the important challenges in the national arena as well as in the international sphere."
"The regional situation was also discussed, [. . .] in particular the conflict in Syria. The enormous number of Syrian refugees who have sought safety in Lebanon and neighboring countries arouses much worry. Greater humanitarian assistance, with the help of the international community, was requested for the welcoming countries as well as for the suffering people. At the same time, the desire for a rapid and beneficial resumption of negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, evermore necessary for the peace and stability of the region, was expressed."
"Finally, the delicate situation of Christians throughout the Middle East was not overlooked as well as the meaningful contribution that they can offer in light of the post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation 'Ecclesia in Medio Oriente', which constitutes an important point of reference for Catholic communities and societies of that region."
Sleiman, who was accompanied by his wife Wafaa and an 11-member delegation, had a 25-minute private meeting with Francis, along with an interpreter.
When the time came for the traditional exchange of gifts, the president gave the Holy Father a 19th century icon of the Virgin Mary whilst the Pope gave the Lebanese leader a rosary and a medallion made of silver and mother of pearl.
This is Lebanese president's second visit in the past year. He met Benedict XVI on 31 October to thank him for his recent trip to Lebanon. Since he was abroad at the time of the new pope's inauguration on 19 March, Sleiman requested a meeting with the Holy Father at a later date.