Ramaphosa meets Pope Leo at Vatican, have 'cordial talks'

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Saturday in what the Holy See has described as "cordial talks".

According to Vatican news, the leaders expressed mutual appreciation for the Catholic Church's contributions to South Africa, particularly in education and healthcare, and recognised its ongoing role in promoting dialogue and reconciliation within society.

In Ramaphosa's message to the Pope, released to the media, the president also highlighted South Africa's upcoming G20 presidency, calling for global solidarity, equality and sustainable solutions to challenges such as war, poverty and climate change.

He said that the country's philosophy of ubuntu, recognising our shared humanity, would guide efforts to build a just and peaceful world.