Two atate visitors today:
WITH THE PRIME MINISTER
OF BANGLADESH
At the end of his general audience today, 18 October, the Holy Father Benedict XVI received Sheikh Hasina, prime minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.
She subsequently went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.
During the cordial discussions, opinions were exchanged concerning the current situation in Bangladesh, the principal challenges facing the country, and the efforts to promote a society that is ever more open to, and respectful of, the human rights of all its citizens.
Furthermore, with reference to the regular contacts between the civil and ecclesiastical authorities, attention also focused on the positive and much-appreciated contribution the Catholic Church makes to human promotion and social life in the country, through her activities of education, healthcare and assistance.
WITH THE PRESIDENT OF BURUNDI
Left photo is a rare one showing the 'geography' of the library where the Pope receives guests in private audience. The doorway where he usually greets them is just a few steps away from the Risen Christ portrait where the formal photographs are taken.
On the evening of Tuesday 17 November, in the Vatican's Apostolic Palace, His Holiness Benedict XVI received in audience Pierre Nkurunziza, president of the Republic of Burundi.
The President subsequently went on to meet Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B., who was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.
In the course of the meetings, which took place in a cordial atmosphere, questions of mutual interest were considered, such as the importance of dialogue and of respect for human rights, as fundamental elements in the creation of a stable society oriented towards the good of all its members.
Emphasis was likewise given to the Church's commitment to contributing to the integral development of the nation of Burundi in the fields of spiritual assistance, education, healthcare and social-humanitarian work.
In this context, the hope was expressed for a framework agreement to define and guarantee the juridical status of the Church and her activities in the country.
[Modificato da TERESA BENEDETTA 18/11/2009 18:15]