Pope Francis stressed the importance of unity among Lebanese officials to overcome the crises facing Lebanon and elect a new president for the country. During his meeting with Prime Minister Najib Mikati at the Vatican, the Pope reaffirmed his strong belief in the mission that Lebanon fulfills through its cultural and religious diversity, which makes it unique in the region. Mikati confirmed that "Lebanon's message throughout its history is now spreading across the Arab world, and the primary challenge before us is to preserve this message and reinforce the values of peace and brotherhood."
Mikati also extended an invitation to the Pope to visit Lebanon, describing it as "a beacon of hope for both Muslims and Christians in Lebanon, and an opportunity for them to unite around the Holy Father during his visit." Following a half-hour private meeting, the Pope and Mikati exchanged commemorative gifts. Mikati stated, "My meeting with His Holiness was special, given what he represents as a high spiritual figure who has always expressed his love for Lebanon and its unique mission in the East as a meeting point for religions and cultures and for the convergence of different spiritual families." He added, "I conveyed to His Holiness my conviction that Lebanon's message, throughout its history, is spreading today across the Arab world, and the main challenge before us is to preserve this message and reinforce the values of peace and brotherhood. Brotherhood opens the door to safeguarding the dignity of every citizen in their country and enhances the spirit of convergence on shared values."
He mentioned, "I presented His Holiness with a message explaining the situations in Lebanon and potential solutions in which the Vatican can contribute to facilitating through its communications in the international community, particularly for conducting presidential elections." Mikati noted, "His Holiness expressed during the meeting his steadfast belief in the mission of Lebanon through the cultural and religious diversity that distinguishes it and makes it unique in the region. He also emphasized the necessity of unity among Lebanese officials to emerge from the crises facing Lebanon and elect a new president."
Additionally, Mikati held talks with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Vatican Foreign Minister, Cardinal Paul Gallagher, presenting the Lebanese situation in all its aspects. Mikati emphasized the importance of the Vatican's assistance in the international community to complete the presidential elections. For his part, Cardinal Parolin confirmed the Vatican's readiness to support Lebanon in all fields, in the presence of the Lebanese ambassador to the Vatican, Fred Khazen, and Mikati's diplomatic advisor, Ambassador Boutros Azar.