Rome, 23 May 2024 (MIA) - President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and the head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis, discussed the Euro-integration of the country and the Western Balkan region, as well as current global developments at an audience Thursday in the Vatican.

The meeting was held as part of Siljanovska-Davkova's visit to Rome and the Vatican in observance of May 24 – Day of the Pan-Slavic Educators Ss. Cyril and Methodius.

“We agreed over current issues, over support for the country on its path to the European Union, the Pope’s support for the Western Balkans, and we said that after 30 years of cooperation, the successes are evident. We affirmed that his visit in 2019 was unbelievably inspirational not only for the small herd he told not to fear but also for all religions, and that we serve as an example for religious dialogue which will continue,” Siljanovska-Davkova said. 

At the meeting, according to the President, she voiced understanding for the concordat reached with the Vatican, since “there should be a systemic approach to the solution of issues related especially to the status of the Catholic Church and the Catholic Christians in our country”.  

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev also had an audience with the Pope on Thursday, however he didn’t meet with Siljanovska-Davkova due to, according to her, scheduling conflicts. The President said both sides were prepared for a meeting, and one is expected to be held in some future occasion. 

“We voiced readiness, but a meeting won’t be held. Both delegations have their own agendas, however we said we would hold a meeting as soon as it is possible,” Siljanovska-Davkova said. 

Radev will visit the Basilica of Saint Clement and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on Thursday, while President Siljanovska-Davkova, will observe the Day of the Pan-Slavic Educators on Friday, May 24, with a visit to St. Cyril’s grave at the Basilica of Saint Clement, followed by a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where she will lay a wreath at the plate with a Macedonian inscription.