Ramaphosa holds first official meeting with Pope Leo XIV in Rome

President Cyril Ramaphosa is holding his first official meeting with Pope Leo XIV in Italy on Friday.

The presidency has confirmed that Ramaphosa has arrived in Rome for bilateral talks with the newly elected head of the Catholic Church.

Ramaphosa said that discussions will focus on climate justice, peace-building, and strengthening cooperation on humanitarian and emergency relief efforts.

Presidency Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that he president is accompanied by his daughter, Keneilwe Ramaphosa, and International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola.

"South Africa and the Holy See have cordial bilateral relations, and the visit by President Ramaphosa serves as an opportunity to discuss a renewed focus on collaboration in humanitarian aid, climate justice, emergency response, and peace building."

Magwenya explains the importance of South Africa's meeting with the Pope.

"The meeting with his holiness Pope Leo XIV is of particular significance as it represents South Africa's first high-level engagement with the newly-appointed pontiff. His ascension to the papacy on 08 May 2025 provides an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen bilateral relations with the Holy See."