AUSTRALIA: GOVERNOR GENERAL MEETS PONTIFF

CATH NEWS REPORT: Pope Benedict received the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, yesterday at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican, reports Vatican Radio.

They also discussed the current international and regional situation, with particular reference to natural disasters and environmental problems as well as interreligious dialogue.A Communiqué from the Press Office of the Holy See says the Pope and the Governor General held cordial discussions on topics including the contribution of the Catholic Church to Australian society, the treatment of refugees, and other themes of mutual interest.

The ABC reports that Ms Bryce is on a six-day official visit to Italy and is one of around 40 heads of state attending celebrations to mark the 150th anniversary of the Italian republic.

Before her meeting with the Pope, she was scheduled to tour the Sistine Chapel and take in an exhibition in the Vatican Museum featuring a collection of Aboriginal art works, the report said.

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