March 3, 2012. (Romereports.com) The new European Ambassador to the Vatican is a woman. On January 2012,
Laurence Argimon Pistre from France, took on her new role.
“Engaging in dialogue is very important. My role is to establish that dialogue between the European Union and the Vatican," said Ambassador Argimon.
Laurence Argimon Pistre
European Union Ambassador to the Vatican
"At the EU we also have Article 17, which deals with having dialogue with churches.”
That dialogue includes economic issues. Everything from the world economic crisis to the Vatican using the Euro as its currency. Of course, there's also talks about freedom of religion and human rights.
Laurence Argimon Pistre
European Union Ambassador to the Vatican
“This crisis is forcing us to question our growth model. It's a model that's been based on economic growth, on having more money. Now we have to rethink the system and see how we can give people a model that's more environmentally and socially acceptable.”
In February, the new ambassador met with Benedict XVI. They discussed the economic crisis and the impact its had on a human level. They also talked about ways to help young people. Argimon says she was very surprised at the conversation she had with Benedict XVI.
Laurence Argimon Pistre
European Union Ambassador to the Vatican
“It was a very warm, kind meeting. I thought it would be something very formal with all types of protocols. But, actually I found that the Vatican is very nice and graceful when welcoming new people.”
The new ambassador replaces Luis Ritto, who was the first ambassador of the European Union Delegation to the Holy See. He served from 2006 to December 2011.
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