Rubio affirms ‘enduring partnership’ with Holy See as he meets with Pope Leo XIV

Published May 7, 2026 12:41pm ET | Updated May 7, 2026 12:41pm ET



Secretary of State Marco Rubio “underscored the strong relationship between the United States and the Holy See” and the “enduring partnership” between them during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV.

The pontiff hosted Rubio for 2 1/2 hours Thursday in Vatican City, where the pair reportedly discussed issues ranging from global politics to religious freedom concerns.

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