Pope Leo XIV Receives Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok at the Vatican
On Saturday, February 21, 2026, Pope Leo XIV received Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok at the Vatican, according to the Holy See’s press service. The meeting underscored the close bilateral relations between Hungary and the Vatican and the Catholic Church’s role in Hungarian society.
Bilateral Discussions and Areas of Focus
Following the audience with Pope Leo XIV, President Sulyok met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Deputy Secretary of State Mihaita Blaj. During the cordial discussions at the Vatican Secretariat of State, participants expressed satisfaction with the existing close ties between Hungary and the Holy See.
The talks highlighted the Catholic Church’s contribution to the development of Hungarian society in various social fields. Specific areas of common interest discussed included the central role of the family and the protection of vulnerable Christian communities worldwide.
International Affairs and the Pursuit of Peace
President Sulyok and Vatican officials also exchanged views on current international events, particularly focusing on ongoing conflict situations. Both sides expressed hope for an increased commitment to promoting peace globally.
Pope Leo XIV’s Recent Activities
Pope Leo XIV was elected as the 267th successor to Saint Peter on May 9, 2025. Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok sent a letter of congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on that date, recognizing Hungary’s thousand-year Christian heritage.
In October 2025, Pope Leo XIV addressed Major Superiors of the Society of Jesus, urging them to continue their missionary work with discernment and service, particularly at the frontiers of culture and human need. He also spoke about the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and the importance of addressing issues like ecological degradation and inequality.
Pope Leo XIV delivered the Angelus and Regina Cæli address in 2026. Further information on his activities and documents can be found on the Vatican website.