Vatican City, August 23, 2025 — The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, met with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV during an official visit to Vatican City. As part of the visit, the President also held discussions with the Holy See’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
During their cordial meeting, President Ramkalawan emphasized the robust and growing relationship between Seychelles and the Holy See. “The bilateral relationship between Seychelles and the Holy See continues to grow from strength to strength, anchored in mutual respect and shared priorities,” he stated. “We are committed to deepening our cooperation in service of the common good and the wellbeing of our people.”
The President also conveyed his gratitude for the warm reception and his appreciation for the work of Monsignor Tomasz Grysa, the Apostolic Nuncio to Seychelles.
Discussions covered a broad range of mutual interests, including collaboration on education, youth empowerment, pastoral outreach, and joint community initiatives between the state and the church, such as the Ferme de L’Espoir project. The dialogue also addressed global challenges like environmental conservation and climate change, alongside social issues including family values and fostering a new generation of clergy. Both sides agreed to continue their engagement through existing diplomatic channels to translate shared goals into practical outcomes.
The visit marked President Ramkalawan’s second papal audience, following a meeting with the late Pope Francis in March of the previous year. He was accompanied by Principal Minister Jean-François Ferrari, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde, and Ambassador of Seychelles to the Holy See Beryl Samson.
The delegation’s itinerary also included visits to the Sistine Chapel, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major—the resting place of Pope Francis—and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
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