Church and state in early harmony

The Argentinian bishops have met President Mauricio Macri, and spelled out their priorities to the government, writes Isabel de Bertodano.

These included the fight against poverty and drug trafficking. Mr Macri, who was inaugurated last month, emphasised to the bishops that their interests coincided with his. Meanwhile, the president has appointed a new ambassador to the Holy See, Rogelio Pfirter, who was Argentina’s ambassador in London from 1995 to 2000.

Among other appointments is Sergio Bergman, a rabbi and lawyer who is now environment minister. Bergman is a friend of Pope Francis and has written a book of essays entitled A Gospel According to Pope Francis.