Overview
- President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Rome on 7 November for a working visit to the Holy See.
- The engagement marks South Africa’s first high-level meeting with Pope Leo XIV since his 8 May 2025 ascension.
- Talks are set to focus on renewed collaboration in humanitarian aid, climate justice, emergency response, and peace building.
- Ramaphosa is accompanied by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola and his daughter, Keneilwe Ramaphosa.
- The Vatican’s UN observer status and extensive diplomatic network underpin a values-based partnership aligned with South Africa’s Ubuntu ethos.