Pope congratulates Mr Mattarella upon his re-election as Italian President

Shortly after receiving news of Mr Sergio Mattarella’s re-election as Italian President, Pope Francis sent him a telegram of congratulations, describing his service as being essential for the unity of the nation.

In his telegram sent on Saturday evening, 29 January, the Pope extended his congratulations to the Head of State for the high office “which he welcomed with a spirit of generous availability”.

“In these times characterized by the pandemic”, writes Pope Francis, “in which many hardships and uncertainties have spread, especially in the work environment, and fear has increased, along with poverty, which leads to closing in on oneself, your service is even more essential to consolidate unity and transmit serenity to the country.

The Pope assured the President of his prayers “so that you may continue to support the beloved Italian people in building an ever more fraternal coexistence and encourage them to face the future with hope”.

Mr Mattarella, 80, received 759 votes out of a total of 983 voters from the electoral college. He was elected on the 6th day of voting.

President Sergio Mattarella’s swearing-in ceremony took place in Rome on Thursday, 3 February.