Leo XIV recently welcomed Andrej Plenković, the President of the Republic of Croatia, for discussions that underscored the strong ties between the Croatian state and the local Church. The meeting took place on December 4 and included notable figures such as Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, and Msgr. Mihăiţă Blaj, the Under-Secretary for Relations with States.
According to a statement released by the Vatican, the talks were characterized by warmth and mutual respect. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the current state of relations and shared an intention to enhance collaboration in various areas of mutual interest.
The discussions also provided a platform for exchanging perspectives on a range of significant issues, with particular focus on regional cooperation in the Western Balkans and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These topics reflect the Church’s broader commitment to peace and stability in the region, highlighting its role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among nations.
The meeting illustrates a continued effort to foster strong relations between the Vatican and Croatia, aiming not only to advance shared goals but also to address pressing geopolitical concerns. The commitment to work together for the betterment of the region reinforces the importance of dialogue in achieving meaningful solutions to contemporary challenges.
