Pope Leo XIV held a private meeting on Monday with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Holy See Press Office announced.
The meeting took place just one day after the inauguration ceremony of the new pope, who is of American origin, attended by both U.S. representatives.
In a statement, the Holy See said that both parties expressed satisfaction with the relations between the United States and the Vatican during their face-to-face discussions. Topics included religious freedom and cooperation between church and state, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio also present.
“Recently, there was an exchange of views on current international issues with a joint call for respect for humanitarian and international law in conflict zones, as well as support for negotiated solutions between involved parties,” the statement said.
The papal audience lasted 45 minutes, according to Vance’s spokesperson. It was held behind closed doors without the presence of journalists.
Following the private audience with the American-born pope, Mr. Vance met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.
On Sunday, Vance expressed that the United States was “very proud” of the Chicago-born pope. “Our prayers certainly go with him as he begins this very important work,” the Vice President said.
