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“The Catholic Church continues to play a vital role in the social development of Dominica, particularly in the areas of education and community support,” Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit stated following his audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican Apostolic Palace this morning.

Prime Minister Skerrit’s visit formed part of an official trip to Italy, which began on 9 September. After meeting with Pope Leo XIV, the Dominican leader held discussions with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

Talks at the Secretariat of State were described as cordial and focused on the positive relations between the Holy See and Dominica. Both parties acknowledged the Church’s contributions to Dominican society, especially in social assistance and education.

The conversation also addressed current regional and national socio-political issues, including societal challenges and the impact of climate change. A mutual commitment to continued cooperation for the benefit of the Dominican people was reaffirmed.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Hon. Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, Minister for Housing and Urban Development. In his absence, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience, and Social Security, is serving as Acting Prime Minister.

On the same day, Pope Leo XIV also received the President of Moldova in a separate audience.

The Vatican’s press release about the Prime Minister’s visit can be seen here: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/09/12/250912a.html