US and Holy See Deepen Cooperation on Peace and Religious Freedom
Washington, D.C. — Secretary of State Marco Rubio held key meetings today with Pope Leo XIV and Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the Vatican, highlighting the strong diplomatic partnership between the United States and the Holy See.
In a meeting with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, Secretary Rubio discussed the situation in the Middle East and shared priorities in the Western Hemisphere. Following the audience, Secretary Rubio stated:
“Met with @Pontifex to underscore our shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity.”
Earlier, Secretary Rubio met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See. The two reviewed ongoing humanitarian efforts in the Western Hemisphere and efforts toward a durable peace in the Middle East. Rubio also welcomed the arrival of Archbishop Caccia as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the United States.
After the meeting with Cardinal Parolin, Secretary Rubio posted:
“Good to see Cardinal Parolin today at the Vatican. The United States and Holy See partnership in advancing religious freedom is strong.”
The discussions emphasized the enduring alliance between the U.S. and the Holy See in advancing religious liberty, humanitarian assistance, and global peace initiatives. Both meetings reflected a shared commitment to human dignity and stability in key regions.
The United States and the Holy See have maintained formal diplomatic relations since 1984 and continue to coordinate on critical international issues, including conflict resolution, refugee support, and the protection of religious minorities.
The Pope has become an outspoken advocate for peace in recent months, particularly amid the U.S.-Iran conflict known as ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ despite the existential threat Iran poses to Israel and the Western world, and despite the Iranian regime’s ongoing human rights atrocities — including the killing of more than 40,000 civilians.
Additional readouts from the State Department are anticipated in the coming days.
