in Vatican City on Thursday to extend a formal invitation for him to visit Peru.
During the meeting, the Holy Father confirmed that he will visit the South American country in the first half of November.
During the audience, the Supreme Pontiff expressed great enthusiasm about returning to Peru, the Presidential Office highlighted on X.
"Likewise, the Holy Father conveyed a profound message of unity for all Peruvians, praying for peace, respect for human rights, and the nation's well-being," the post stated.
In remarks to various media outlets, the Head of State said the Supreme Pontiff's visit would include the cities of Lima, Chiclayo, Piura, Cusco, and Pucallpa, as well as possibly Puno and Iquitos.
The trip is expected to last approximately 8 to 10 days.
"He (the Pope) has confirmed and reconfirmed that he is very interested in returning to Peru in the first half of November (...) He arrives in Lima, travels to Chiclayo, and from Chiclayo he will go to Piura, Sullana, and then perhaps Cusco and Pucallpa are also in his plans," Balcazar told RPP following the meeting, which lasted nearly two hours.
Audience
It added that attention turned to matters of common interest, including socio-economic trends, illegal mining activity, the promotion of the common good and dialogue, as well as commitment to social cohesion.
Finally, the statement concluded by noting there was also an exchange of views on the regional and international socio-political situation, with particular attention to the phenomenon of migration, organized crime, and the repercussions of conflicts.
Following the meeting, President Balcázar met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.