US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has announced a significant meeting between officials from the United States and the Vatican, highlighting the "strong ties" between the two nations. The high-level encounter between US Ambassador to the Holy See, Joe Donnelly, and Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, comes as a surprise given the recent public feud between former President Donald Trump and Pope Francis. Trump's recent comments criticizing the Pope's stance on various issues have sparked controversy, but the State Department's statement suggests that the diplomatic relationship between the US and the Vatican remains robust. The meeting is expected to focus on key areas of cooperation, including global development and human rights.
The State Department says Leo-Rubio meeting underscores 'strong ties', despite Trump’s recent attacks on the pope.
