Pope Benedict XVI received in audience the President of the United States of America, Barack H. Obama. The primary focus of the discussions were issues that constitute a great challenge for the future of every nation and for the real progress of peoples, such as the defence and promotion of life and the right to conscientious objection. Immigration was also mentioned, with particular attention to family reunification. Issues of international politics, in the light of the results of the Summit of the G8 were at the centre of their discussions. Prospects of peace in the Middle East, where there are convergences, and other regional situations were also addressed. Other topical issues were then discussed ...