Antigua and Barbuda says its ambassador to the Holy See, Sir David Shoul, was expected this week to present Letters of Credence to His Holiness, Pope Francis.
Sir David was expected to meet on May 17 with officials of the Holy See, including the Most Reverend Dominique Mamberti, secretary for relations with states within the Roman Curia; Monsignor Jose’ Avelino Bettencourt, head of protocol; and Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, secretary of state, according to an Antigua and Barbuda government statement.
“The appointment of Ambassador Shoul is testimony to Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to improving the harmonious bilateral relation between the Government of Antigua and the Holy See,” it said.
“It is the sincere hope of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda that this appointment will help to deepen the relationship between the two States,” it added.
Antigua and Barbuda and the Holy See formally commenced diplomatic relations on the Dec.15, 1986.
“The two countries enjoy good diplomatic relations, based on core values such as cooperation, mutual respect and an adherence to the rule of law,” the statement said.