H.H. The Ambassador with H.E. The President of the Federal Republic of Germany Joachim Gauck in Audience with the Holy Father Benedict XVI

Thursday 6 December, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Benedict XVI received in audience the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Joachim Gauck, who subsequently went on to meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B., accompanied by Msgr. Ettore Balastrero, under secretary for Relations with States.

The discussions highlighted the cordial nature of bilateral relations; attention was given to the Christian view of the person, as well as the challenges currently posed by globalisation and the secularisation of society.

This was followed by a fruitful exchange of opinions on the international situation and the current economic crisis, especially in relation to its consequences in Europe, and the contribution that the Catholic Church may offer.

[01640-02.01] [Original text: Italian]