The Vice President of Ghana and the Presidential Candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on Wednesday 24 April, 2024 visited the Vatican, where he was warmly received by Pope Francis as part of his working visit to the Republic of Italy and the Vatican State.
This landmark meeting underscores Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with the global community and fostering diplomatic relations on an international scale.
The historic encounter took place in the the “Auletta,” or small study, of the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, where Dr. Bawumia had the distinct honour of meeting with Pope Francis, according to a statement issued by the Holy See Press Office.
During their meeting, discussions between Dr. Bawumia and Pope Francis centered on strengthening diplomatic relations between Ghana and the Vatican.
See also NFL Woos Bawumia, Ghanaian Children With Exhibition Of American Football
The discussions were cordial, cementing the positive relations between the Holy See and Ghana.
Key areas of focus during the meeting included the political and socio-economic landscape of Ghana, with particular attention given to collaboration in fields such as education and healthcare.
These discussions underscored Ghana’s commitment to advancing its socio-economic development and fostering partnerships with international stakeholders to achieve common goals.
Pope Francis offered prayers for Ghana and her leaders.
After his encounter with the Pope, Dr. Bawumia met with the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, H.E Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher and Ghana’s pride, Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson, who was kind to show me around the Vatican.
Their discussions further cemented the strong ties between Ghana and the Vatican and explored avenues for cooperation on various issues of mutual interest.
Particular attention, the communiqué noted, was focused on some aspects of the country’s political and socio-economic situation, especially regarding collaboration in the fields of education and healthcare.
One notable aspect of the discussions was the exchange of views on current international issues, particularly focusing on security challenges facing West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea.
Dr. Bawumia was accompanied by his spouse, Samira Bawumia (the second lady), Dr. Gideon Boako, Economic Advisor and Spokesperson for the Vice President, and additional government officials.
Vice president Bawumia is expected to return to Ghana on Thursday, 25 April 2024.
View additional images below:
.
Source: myghanamedia.com