TIRANA, February 5 – Prime Minister Edi Rama met Pope Leo XIV during his official visit to the Vatican.

The meeting took place at the Apostolic Palace. It was followed by a discussion at the Secretariat of State of the Holy See. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, attended the session.

Discussions focused on regional issues. The situation in the Western Balkans featured prominently. The talks also covered Albania’s path toward full European Union integration.

The Holy See press office noted that participants emphasized the strong relationship between the Holy See and the Republic of Albania. They discussed topics of mutual interest that relate to relations between the religious community and civil society.

Regional matters remained at the center of the conversation, including the situation in Western Balkan countries. Participants also highlighted Albania’s progress and ambitions toward full EU integration.

/a.p./