This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, who later met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

During the cordial discussions in the Secretariat of State, in expressing appreciation for the good bilateral relations that exist, reference was made to the need to continue to develop interreligious and ecumenical dialogue, always ensuring that the Catholic Church in Jordan may freely exercise her mission.

Finally, highlighting the importance of promoting stability and peace in the Middle East, with particular reference to the Palestinian question and the issue of refugees, the need to preserve and encourage the Christian presence in the region was reiterated. In this regard, the need to continue to preserve the status quo in the Holy Places in Jerusalem, a meeting place and symbol of peaceful coexistence, where mutual respect and dialogue are cultivated, was emphasized.