The Belgian King Philip brings on December 12th  a visit to  the Pope and the Vatican. The program includes a meeting with the Pope and then a meeting with the new Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. Philip has been waiting for  17 months tomeet with the Pope.

The last visit by a reigning Belgian king was on October 11th 2009. When King Albert II and Queen Paola attended  the canonization of Father Damien, they were received by Pope Benedict in the papal library. The private audience lasted half an hour.

The Belgian King Philip is accompanied by Queen Matilda.