Fianna Fáil Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Sean Fleming, says he is “very honoured” to have been given a private audience with Pope Francis.

The meeting occurred during a visit to Rome and Vatican City on a diplomatic mission last week.

“I am very honoured to have a private audience with the Holy Father and to have the opportunity to recognise the role he and the Holy See plays in building peace,” Fleming said ahead of the trip, adding: “In an uncertain world, this work is more important than ever.”

He went on to highlight the deep historical connections between the Catholic faith and Irish culture.

“The people-to-people links between Ireland and Italy and the Vatican go back centuries,” he said.

Minister Fleming is also set to meet Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, to discuss bilateral relations and geopolitical matters.