MFA Press Statement: Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo's visit to the Holy See, 20 – 21 April 2010

Minister George Yeo made an official visit to the Holy See from 20 - 21 April 2010. Minister Yeo had a short audience with His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on 21 April 2010. Minister Yeo conveyed the good wishes of the President, Prime Minister and the people of Singapore, and a letter from President S R Nathan inviting the Pope to visit Singapore next year in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The Pope thanked President Nathan for the invitation and gave his blessings to the people and government of Singapore.

While in the Vatican, Minister Yeo also had meetings with President of the Pontifical Commission and President of the Governorate of Vatican City State Cardinal Giovanni Lajolo, Secretary for Relations with States Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, and Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace Mario Toso, to discuss ways to enhance bilateral cooperation. In particular, Minister Yeo proposed cooperation in inter-faith dialogue.

Minister Yeo also called on Archbishop Emeritus of Boston Cardinal Bernard Francis Law and Prelate of Opus Dei Monsignor Javier Echevarria, whom he met in Singapore last year.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
22 APRIL 2010