PRESIDENT Michael D Higgins is to meet Pope Francis in Rome on Monday.
The President's office confirmed the audience would take place in the Papal Library at the Vatican and that the two heads of state will discuss issues of "regional and global importance".
While in Rome Mr Higgins will also hold talks with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State of the Vatican and meet Irish clergy and lay staff working at the Holy See.
The President will also travel to Venice for the Biennale, the world's largest and oldest international art exhibition.
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