His Holiness Pope Francis welcomed Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski to the cradle of Roman Catholicism in a private audience at the Vatican Apostolic Palace on Friday.
In the meeting at the Pope's private library, the Peruvian leader will formalize the invitation for His Holiness to visit the Inca nation on January 18-21 next year.
Mr. Kuczynski arrived at the Holy See alongside his wife, Nancy Lange.
Then, he crossed Saint Peter's Square to reach San Damaso Courtyard, where he was honored by the Pontifical Swiss Guard —a small force responsible for the safety of the Holy See and the Supreme Pontiff.
The Peruvian flag was hoisted at San Damaso Square of the Apostolic Palace, as part of the protocol for an official visit.
Once there, Peru's top official was received by Prefect of the Papal Household, His Excellency Monsignor Georg Gänswein, Titular Archbishop of Urbisaglia, who greeted President Kuczynski and his wife.
Afterwards, Monsignor Georg Gänswein joined him on his way to the Pope's private library.
During the tour, they were escorted by the Gentlemen of His Holiness —lay members of noble families appointed as such for the service to the Pontiff.
Lastly, the Peruvian leader entered the Sala del Tronetto —the room of the little throne— where His Holiness was awaiting him.
They shook hands and exchanged a few words. After that, they entered the papal library, where the audience takes place.