Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati emphasized Lebanon’s enduring national unity and its commitment to coexistence during a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican. Despite ongoing crises, Mikati underscored Lebanon’s role as a beacon of dialogue in the region and highlighted the importance of the Christian presence as a cornerstone of the country’s unity and identity.

Mikati held a private 30-minute meeting with Pope Francis, during which they discussed Lebanon’s current situation and the challenges facing the region. 

Speaking after the meeting, Mikati expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet Pope Francis, noting the significance of the visit during a period of great difficulty for Lebanon and the region.

“This morning, I had the privilege of meeting His Holiness Pope Francis,” Mikati said. “This visit carries profound meaning at a time of immense challenges, underscoring the pivotal role that His Holiness and the Holy See can play in supporting Lebanon.”

Mikati conveyed Lebanon’s commitment to national unity and coexistence, emphasizing that these principles continue to define the nation despite its ongoing challenges.

“I reaffirmed to His Holiness our steadfast commitment to coexistence and Lebanon’s role as a message of peace and dialogue in the region. I also emphasized the importance of the Christian presence as a guarantee of Lebanon’s unity, both in land and people,” Mikati said.

He also highlighted the urgency of ending Lebanon’s presidential election stalemate, calling it a matter of national importance that requires collaboration among all political and religious leaders.

“We hope to end the presidential vacuum soon. I informed His Holiness that the role of Christian leaders is fundamental in this regard, in partnership with all components of Lebanese society,” he noted. “The presidency is not solely a Christian concern but a national milestone that involves every part of our society.”

In his discussions with Pope Francis and Vatican officials, Mikati raised several critical issues, urging the Vatican to press Israel to address the plight of Lebanese detainees and expedite its withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories in accordance with ceasefire agreements.

Mikati also discussed the situation in Syria, expressing Lebanon’s hopes for stability and unity in its neighboring country. He emphasized the importance of a political system that reflects the aspirations of the Syrian people while preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

PM Mikati expressed deep respect and gratitude for Pope Francis and the Holy See’s consistent support for Lebanon. He acknowledged the Vatican’s efforts in engaging with global powers to safeguard Lebanon’s future and promote solutions to its ongoing crises.

“Lebanon, in all its diversity, holds immense respect and appreciation for His Holiness,” Mikati said. “The Lebanese people are grateful for his unwavering support for our country, its unity, and its message.”

Mikati extended an invitation for Pope Francis to visit Lebanon, expressing hope that such a visit would bring encouragement and hope to the Lebanese people.

Following his audience with the Pope, Mikati met with Vatican's Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who reaffirmed the Holy See's special attention to Lebanon, and praised it as a model for coexistence in a diverse society.

“Lebanon has always been an example to the world of how diverse communities can coexist,” Cardinal Parolin said.

He reiterated the Vatican’s call for the timely election of a president capable of uniting the Lebanese people under the constitution and expressed hope that this milestone would be achieved soon.

The Cardinal assured Mikati that the Vatican would continue its efforts to support Lebanon on the international stage, pledging to assist in overcoming the nation’s challenges and ensuring its stability.