His Holiness Pope Francis and President Pia Kauma, Vatican City, 23 November 2024. Photo credit: © Vatican MediaVATICAN CITY, 23 November 2024 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Pia Kauma (Finland) met with His Holiness Pope Francis today at the Vatican, accompanied by Secretary General Roberto Montella and Ambassador Lamberto Zannier. The meeting focused on the vital role of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing global conflicts, with an emphasis on dialogue as a powerful tool for resolving tensions and fostering international co-operation.

In the context of the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the delegation discussed how parliamentary diplomacy can bridge divides, build trust, and promote peaceful solutions. 

"We are deeply honored to meet with His Holiness Pope Francis today," President Kauma said. "In these challenging times,dialogue remains one of the most powerful tools at our disposal, even when it seems impossible. As parliamentarians, it is our duty to keep Secretary General Roberto Montella, His Holiness Pope Francis, President Pia Kauma and Ambassador Lamberto Zannier, Vatican City, 23 November 2024. Photo credit: © Vatican Mediacommunication channels open, fostering understanding and building bridges to resolve conflicts. The OSCE PA is unwavering in its belief that dialogue and justice are the path to lasting peace."

Yesterday, President Kauma also met with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States within the Holy See's Secretariat, to discuss the Holy See's role within the OSCE and the broader challenges facing the OSCE region.