President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Friday, October 18, 2024, met the head of the Catholic Church His Holiness Pope Francis in the Vatican Apostolic Palace in Rome, Italy. During the visit, Pope Francis adorned President Boakai with a work of bronze depicting a dove carrying an olive branch, with Italian inscription “Siate messaggeri di pace” (Be messengers of peace).
The Pope also offered the Liberian President a copy of this year’s “Message for Peace” and a set of papal documents. During talks, good relations between the “Holy See” and Liberia were evoked, as well as the collaboration with the Catholic Church in the fields of education and healthcare; some aspects of the socio-economic situation of the country were discussed.The conversation continued with an exchange of opinions on current international affairs, with particular reference to the regional situation and migratory phenomena.
The meeting between Boakai and Pope Francis reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Liberia and the Holy See, and follows Liberia’s tradition of engagement with global partners for peace, development and social progress.
Speaking, the President expressed deep gratitude for the Church’s contributions to the betterment of the Liberian people through its educational institutions and medical services which have played a pivotal role in advancing social welfare and human dignity.
By Prince Saah
