Benedict XVI meets with president of Suriname

Vatican City, Nov 20, 2009 / (CNA).-

Today the Holy Father met with Dr. Ronald Venetiaan, president of Suriname. The two heads of state discussed issues of concern in the South American country, with particular focus on the government's social policies.

According to the Vatican press office, the meeting also focused on “the defense of the environment and on fields of collaboration between Church and State."

President Venetiaan then met with Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone as well as Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States.