Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit from Sept 09 to 12, 2025 visited Italy, to meet with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican City. There he discussed the ways to strengthen the relations between the Holy See and the Nature Island.
They also discussed the pressing global issues including humanitarian efforts. Issues such as climate change resilience and social progress were also discussed.
On his journey, Prime Minister Skerrit also met with the Secretary of State to reinforce bilateral cooperation of the Vatican City at the highest levels. Along with the Vatican engagements, PM Skerrit’s visit to Italy also featured meetings with business leaders that aimed at exploring avenues for economic collaboration, sustainable development initiatives and cultural partnerships.
Prime Minister Skerrit was accompanied by many other diplomats from Dominica, upon his visit to Italy. Minister for Housing and Urban Development and Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau Central Constituency – Melissa Poponne-Skerrit visited with him to meet the Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City.
While the Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is abroad, Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security – Dr. Irving McIntyre will serve as Acting Prime Minister.
Pope Leo XIV, Holy See at the Vatican City
He is the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State. He is the first pope who is born and brought-up in the United States and North America. Also, he is the first one to hold American and Peruvian Citizenships.
The first born after World War II and the first from the Order of Saint Augustine and the second from the Americas after his predecessor Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV was made a cardinal by Pope Francis. The Prevost emphasised synodality, missionary dialogue and engagement with social and technological challenges.
He also worked on issues such as climate change, global migration, church governance and human rights. He also expressed alignment with the reforms of the Second Vatican Council.