President Joe Biden met privately with Pope Francis on June 14 during the G7 summit in Puglia, Italy.
The discussion, described as personally meaningful to Biden, covered various critical global issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “The leaders emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and a hostage deal,” the White House statement said.
Biden also expressed his gratitude to the Pope for the Vatican’s efforts for the war in Ukraine, especially his help reuniting kidnapped Ukrainian children with their families.
“President Biden thanked Pope Francis for the Vatican’s work to address the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine,” the statement said.
The two also discussed climate change. “President Biden also reaffirmed his deep appreciation for the Pope’s tireless advocacy for the poor and those suffering from persecution,” the statement continued.
A brief video released showed Biden telling Pope Francis about the comfort his family received from the Pope’s words after the death of his son Beau.
The two leaders shared a warm exchange, with the Pope saying, “Pray for me. I pray for you,” to which Biden replied, “I promise I do.”
Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
