Ecuador now has a new ambassador to the Holy See, José Luis Álvarez Palacio.
“I want to tell you I'm bringing my credentials as ambassador of Ecuador, from President Lenín Moreno, who sends you a brotherly hug.”
Pope Francis gave him the main written works of his papacy and asked for prayers from the ambassador's mother, who attended the encounter customarily.
Later, the pope accompanied the ambassador to his study, where the Holy Father has already set up the traditional Advent wreath.