Rome, 24 July (LaPresse) – Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram to the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, who turned 84 yesterday. As reported by the Vatican media, Prevost assured the head of state of his prayers ‘for the high task he carries out with a spirit of self-sacrifice for the unity of the beloved Italian nation’. ‘I share the joy of this auspicious occasion with all those who are close to you and accompany you with affection and gratitude for your exemplary and tireless service to the cause of peace and harmony among peoples,’ writes the Pontiff. Finally, the Pope entrusts the Italian president ‘to the maternal intercession of the Virgin Mary and the patron saints of Italy’ and imparts his apostolic blessing, extending it ‘to his family, his collaborators and the entire country.’