Pope Francis in private meeting with President Putin

President Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Pope Francis last night in a private audience in the Vatican. This was the second time they have met. President Putin first visited Pope Francis in November 2013. A statement issued by the Head of the Holy See Press Office, Fr Federico Lombardi said the meeting held between the Holy Father and Russian President Vladimir Putin took place in the Library of the Apostolic Palace.

During the 50 minute discussion, both the Pope and the President focused on the conflict in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East.

Fr Lombardi said Pope Francis stressed "the need to commit in a sincere and great effort to achieve peace,'' adding that both men "agreed on the importance of reconstructing a climate of dialogue and that all sides commit themselves to implementing the Minsk accords.''

He said Pope Francis also stressed the need to address the serious humanitarian situation in Ukraine.

The situation in Iraq and Syria was also discussed.

The Vatican statement highlighted the "urgency" with which the international community must pursue peace efforts, "assuring at the same time the necessary conditions for the life of all components of society, including religious minorities and in particular Christians.''

Following the discussion there was an exchange of gifts. President Putin gave the Pope an embroidery of the famous Church of Jesus Savior, while the Pope donated a medallion by artist Guido Veroi showing the angel of peace calling for the construction of a world of solidarity and peace based on justice. A copy of the Pope's Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium was also given to the President.

Source: VIS