Soane Patita Paini Mafi, bishop of Tonga, is elevated to the rank of Cardinal by Pope Francis during a consistory, on February 14, 2015 at St. Peter's basilica in Vatican. Photo: AFP
Pope Francis has met King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u Tuku'aho of Tonga in the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican.
According to Tonga Daily News, the Vatican says the king expressed his satisfaction and enthusiasm at the election of the first Cardinal from Tonga, Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi.
Attention was paid to the recent political developments in the country and a number of aspects of social and economic life, as well as the positive contribution of the Catholic Church.
There was also discussion on the international situation, with particular reference to the Pacific and the environmental problems that some are facing.