Pope Leo XIV speaks with Lebanon's president about peace and stability

Pope Leo XIV speaks with Lebanon's president about peace and stability

On June 13, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, at the Vatican. In a cordial conversation, the role of the Catholic Church in Lebanese society and the bilateral relations between the Holy See and Lebanon were emphasized. Aoun, who was elected president in January after a political stalemate, aims to stabilize the country and improve economic conditions as it faces external threats and internal divisions. 

The talks focused on the urgent need for political unity and economic renewal in Lebanon. Aoun wished for a new era of coexistence and economic prosperity. The Pope stressed the urgent need to bring about peace and reconciliation throughout the Middle East region, underscoring the fundamental importance of interreligious dialogue and cooperation. Aoun also discussed the importance of strengthening the ideals of coexistence among faith communities.

Important accompanying discussions

As part of the visit, the Lebanese President also met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Monsignor Miroslaw Wachowski from the Foreign Relations Department of the State Secretariat. These meetings reflect the Vatican's commitment to promoting dialogue and safeguarding the common good in a geopolitical environment characterized by tensions and uncertainties. According to reports from vaticannews The talks took place in a positive atmosphere and reflected the hope for future stability in Lebanon.

The Maronite bishops expressed their desire for peace and an end to the war in the Gaza Strip after a meeting in Bkerke. This statement underlines the broader concern about the situation in the Middle East and the need for reforms and political stability in Lebanon to consolidate religious coexistence. 

A resilient Lebanon

In the current political situation in Lebanon, the path to stability is a challenge. This issue was previously highlighted when Pope Francis received Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in December 2024. During his visit to the Vatican, the difficult socio-economic crisis, the political paralysis due to the lack of a president and the fragile ceasefire in the country were discussed. The Pope highlighted the role of the Christian community as key to Lebanon's well-being.

The discussions in the Vatican point to the ongoing need for society as a whole to promote dialogue between faith communities. The Pope did not give up hope for peace and coexistence in a region burdened by conflict. The regular meetings between Lebanese political leaders and the Holy See are a strong sign of the ongoing search for stability and unity in Lebanon, a country considered a unique example of interreligious coexistence.

For Lebanon, the path to lasting peace and economic recovery remains crucial, while outside support, such as that coming from the Vatican, is seen as essential. These developments show the deep-rooted hope that dialogue and belief in a common future will endure across all political differences.

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