By Arnold Neliba
ROME, JANUARY 30, 2024 (CISA)-Pope Francis in an audience with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of the Republic of Guinea Bissau discussed the social situation in the west African nation.
The Monday, January 29 meeting in the Vatican Apostolic Palace according to the statement issued by the Holy See Press Office also touched on the Church’s contribution to education and health sectors in the country.
“During the cordial discussions, which took place in the Secretariat of State, the good relations between the Holy See and Guinea Bissau were highlighted, certain aspects of the social situation in the country were discussed, and the Church’s contribution to the common good, especially in the fields of education and health, was evoked,” reads the statement.
Following his meeting with Pope Francis, the President met with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, accompanied by the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
At the end of the audience, the Pope presented the President of Guinea-Bissau with a number of gifts, including a bronze sculpture, volumes of papal documents and his 2024 message for peace.
According to the World Bank, Guinea-Bissau is fighting a battle against poverty, low growth, and political fragility. Each of these areas presents both a formidable challenge as well as an opportunity for serious, long-lasting and much-needed change. Poverty is entrenched, inequality is high and other human development outcomes are weak with many of the key indicators worsening over time. Fragility is intrinsically linked to low growth and lack of inclusiveness.
