PM Tusk at the Vatican: A Conversation with the Pope on Peace and World Unity
07.05.2026
Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited the Vatican at the invitation of Pope Leo XIV, with whom he held a lengthy private conversation. "The Holy Father spoke of the need for peace, reconciliation, and the uniting of people of goodwill across the world," the head of government emphasised. The Pope's words and actions carry great weight, as they have the power to restore the moral order in public life as well. Leo XIV addressed the Polish people, urging them not to lose hope and to unite around positive values. The Prime Minister confirmed the invitation for the Pope to visit Poland, which the Holy Father accepted with joy.
A conversation on peace and shared values
In a world dominated by national self-interest and conflict, there is a need to return to the values proclaimed by Leo XIV — peace, responsibility, and solidarity.
I told the Holy Father that his words could have a positive influence on a world that is heading in a troubling direction. The Pope's words and actions carry great weight, because they restore the moral order in public life too.
— Donald Tusk said.
The head of government evoked the figure of Polish Pope St John Paul II, whose words also transformed the communist reality in Poland.
Good and wise words, and moral conduct, are not merely gestures — sometimes they can change the world. That was the case with John Paul II, and we were all the beneficiaries.
— the Prime Minister stressed.
Through the head of government, Leo XIV delivered a message to the Polish people: do not lose hope, build strength in the service of good, and unite around positive values.
The world need not sink into chaos if people of goodwill find one another and act together. I continue to believe deeply that non-violent action, faith that truth is stronger than lies, solidarity and dialogue over confrontation, and human rights are still relevant — that all of this has profound meaning, and that we are not alone in any of it.
— the Prime Minister said.
Tusk presented the Pope with a gift of the Pentateuch in the Kashubian language; in return, Leo XIV gave him an art album with a personal dedication.
There is one word the Holy Father used to describe both himself and me — peacemakers. I may not have earned that description, but I will show this inscription to everyone with pride. The guiding idea of the Pope's pontificate, when it comes to public affairs, is without doubt peace and reconciliation.
— the head of government noted.
Donald Tusk confirmed the invitation for the Pope to visit Poland, which the Holy Father accepted with joy.
The Prime Minister laid flowers at the tomb of St John Paul II in St Peter's Basilica. He also met with the Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and with the Vatican's head of diplomacy, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.