Pope Francis hosted the president of Sri Lanka at the Vatican on Monday, discussing a wide range of issues.
President Maithripala Sirisena respectfully bowed when greeting the Pope. They stood together and posed for a photo before sitting down. But they weren't done with photos.
The Pope made light of the formality.
'A photo for protocol.â?
During their private meeting, the two discussed the Pope's previous trip to Sri Lanka, as well as the process of reconciliation the country is currently undergoing. They also spoke about interreligious affairs and the Paris climate summit.
According to the Vatican, the conversation was cordial.
After the meeting, the two exchanged gifts. The president gave the Pope an ornate vase, while the Pope gifted him a wooden 'Tree of Peaceâ? that contains connected olive branches.
On his way out, Pope Francis encouraged the Sri Lankan president to always work toward achieving peace.
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