President Mahinda Rajapakse meets Pope Francis at the Apostolic palace in Vatican

president Mahinda Rajapakse met Pope Francis in Vatican city this morning. The president handed over the official invitation to the holy papal requesting him an official visit in Sri Lanka by January next year.

The president and the first lady madam Shiranthi Rajapakse were warmly welcomed by the chief Diplomatic officer of the Vatican Jose Bethancourt. The Sri Lankan delegation was escorted to the Apostolic palace by the Vatican officials with full state honors. During their meeting the Pope and the President discussed the situation in Sri Lanka, with particular reference to recent social and economic progress.Their discussion also focused on the forthcoming visit in the hope that his journey will welcomed as a sign of solidarity with all the people of Sri Lanka and a moment of encouragement for all those working for justice, peace, reconciliation and the common good of the country.

President also held talks with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. The president is scheduled to meet Sri Lankan community Vatsican this evening.

Source : www.slbc.lk