President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has consoled Pope Francis regarding the recent tragic loss of Former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, who had previously met the Pontiff in 2016.

Chakwera described late Dr. Chilima as “a devout Catholic and a source of inspiration for millions of Malawians”, and thanked the Pontif for the exceptional leadership and ministry of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi in shepherding Malawians through the daze of shock, grief, and confusion that followed the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of the Vice President and right others on June 10th.

In response, Pope Francis expressed immense pleasure at the encounter with President Chakwera, imparting his blessings upon both the President and the people of Malawi.

He pledged his unwavering support and solidarity towards Malawi’s pursuit of enhanced prosperity and peace.

Furthermore, the Pope arranged for a meeting between the President and the Vatican’s Secretary of State to advance the strengthening of relations between Malawi and the Vatican, ensuring a private tour of St. Peter’s Basilica for a moment of prayer dedicated to the flourishing of Malawi-Vatican relations.