By Gift Chiponde and Abel Ikiloni in Italy
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera on Monday met with Pope Francis, leader of the Catholic Church, in Vatican City State.
The President also met with Cardinal Secretary of State of the Vatican, Eminence Pietro Parolin, where they discussed a number of issues concerning between the two countries.
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera commended Pope Francis for his exemplary leadership in addressing global issues such as climate change and economic inequality, as well as advocating a robust partnership between their respective States.
During his official visit to Rome, President Chakwera had the privilege of meeting Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City.
The discussions between the two leaders centered on the progress of bilateral relations between Malawi and the Holy See, drawing upon the historical connections between the two States and their shared distinction as the only Heads of State with formal training in Theology and Philosophy, transitioning from roles in the Church to positions of leadership in the State.In his address to His Holiness, President Chakwera expressed his profound gratitude for the audience, emphasising his representation of the Malawian people, a significant portion of whom are Catholics.
“I also positioned myself as a dedicated student and disciple eager to deepen my understanding of servant-leadership that I may continue prioritises the welfare of the populace,” said Chakwera
President Chakwera extended his condolences to Pope Francis regarding the recent tragic loss of Former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, who had previously met the Pontiff in 2016. Describing the late Dr. Chilima as a devout Catholic and a source of inspiration for millions of Malawians,
President Chakwera paid tribute to the exceptional leadership and ministry of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi during the mourning period.In response, Pope Francis expressed immense pleasure at the encounter with President Chakwera, imparting his blessings upon both the President and the people of Malawi.
He pledged his unwavering support and solidarity towards Malawi’s pursuit of enhanced prosperity and peace.
Furthermore, the Pope arranged for a meeting between the President and the Vatican’s Secretary of State to advance the strengthening of relations between Malawi and the Vatican, ensuring a private tour of St. Peter’s Basilica for a moment of prayer dedicated to the flourishing of Malawi-Vatican relations.
After the meetings, which were held in camera, the Malawi leader toured several places within the Vatican building Apostolico including the Holy City monuments where many notable people of influence in the Bible were laid to rest.
One of the notable people buried there is St. Peter.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) Presidential Advisor on Religious Affairs, Rev. Brian Kamwendo described the meeting with the Pope as important.
“This means a lot to us. President Chakwera, being a leader who is serving the nation that is highly religious in which the Catholic Church comprises of a big demography.
“We can see the collaboration between the State and faith are uniting Malawians and prospering together in relation to the vision of the President,” he said.
Malawi News Agency (Mana) photographer Abel Ikiloni captured some of the moments.
