As the visit of his Holiness Pope Francis is to take place a few days after the Presidential election, the opinion of the two main Presidential candidates - President Mahinda Rajapaksa and common candidate Maithripala Sirisena were sought on this regard, Catholic church spokesperson - Rev. Fr. Cyril Gamini said.

Peaceful
At the discussion with the Catholic Bishops' Conference, the two main Presidential candidates pledged to maintain a peaceful post-election period.

Speaking further, Rev. Fr. Cyril Gamini added that all preparations for the Papal visit are going ahead as planned and they are receiving full cooperation of state institutions.

(BBC Sandeshaya)