Pope Francis met with Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro. The private visit took place in the midst of the 'worrysome political, social, and economic situation the country is going through, which is having serious repercussins in the daily life of the people', according to a statement from the Vatican.
'The pope, who is worried about the well-being of all Venezuelans, wants to continute to offer his contributions to the institutions of the country and to every step that might help solve current issues that affect the country and to build trust between all parties.'
Pope Francis has asked Maduro that he 'take up the path of constructive and honest dialogue to ease the suffering of the people, especially the poor,' and that he foster 'the promotion of a climate of renewed social unity, which will enable a new perspective of hope for the future of the nation.'