Blinken Meets Pope Francis at Vatican

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Pope Francis at the Vatican on November 27 to discuss key international issues, including the recent Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and the humanitarian crisis stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Blinken praised the Pope's efforts on LGBTQI rights, acknowledging his commitment to advancing dignity for LGBTQI individuals, despite facing criticism over past remarks. This visit, which follows a two-day G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Italy, highlighted ongoing U.S.-Vatican dialogue on shared global concerns. Blinken also held discussions with Vatican officials Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher. This marks Blinken's second meeting with the Pope, following their first encounter in June 2021. The conversations reflect a continued focus on geopolitical stability and human rights amidst various global crises.