Pope Leo XIV meets with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

Mr Rubio presents Pope Leo with a crystal football @Vatican Media

Source: Vatican Media, ICN

Pope Leo XIV held an audience with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the Apostolic Palace, on Thursday, after his meeting with the Polish Prime Minister.

According to a Vatican press release, the "cordial talks" saw both states renew "the shared commitment to fostering sound bilateral relations between the Holy See and the United States of America."

Their encounter also included an exchange of views "regarding situations on the regional and international levels, with particular attention given to countries experiencing war, political tensions and difficult humanitarian situations as well as the need to work tirelessly for peace."

Separately, the Holy See Press Office said discussions about countries enduring war included some African and Middle Eastern countries, such as Lebanon and Iran.

They also spoke about Cuba, which has seen heightened tensions with the US recently.

After the meeting a spokesperson for the US state department told reporters that the conversation had been "friendly and constructive". Marco Rubio met Pope Leo "to discuss the situation in the Middle East and issues of mutual interest in the western hemisphere".. "The meeting underscored the strong relationship between the United States and the Holy See, as well as their shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity," he said.