Pope Francis Welcomes Malawian President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera to the Vatican
On a serene Monday at the Vatican, Pope Francis graciously received the President of the Republic of Malawi, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera. The meeting took place at the Apostolic Palace, where President Chakwera also had the opportunity to engage in discussions with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.
The Holy See Press Office released a statement highlighting the positive relationship between the Holy See and Malawi. The discussions also delved into the political and socio-economic landscape of Malawi, with a special focus on the collaboration between the Catholic Church and Malawi in areas such as healthcare, education, and professional training.
The conversations extended to regional and international matters, underscoring the significance of fostering dialogue and reconciliation among nations.
As is customary, an exchange of gifts took place between Pope Francis and President Chakwera. The Pope presented a bronze casting symbolizing unity and solidarity, along with a copy of his Message for Peace for 2024 and a book about the 2020 “Statio Orbis“. In return, President Chakwera gifted the Holy Father a meticulously crafted wooden relief depicting the map of Malawi, complete with its main cities and indigenous wildlife.
Exchange of gifts during the Audience for the President of Malawi
