President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Saturday affirmed Egypt's appreciation for the role of the Vatican in promoting the values of tolerance, mercy and justice as well as enhancing ties with Cairo.

This came in a message handed over by Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, while wrapping up his visit to the Vatican City, to Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State.

Shoukry conveyed to the pontiff the greetings of president Sisi and Egypt's appreciation for relations with the Vatican that have developed throughout the years, said Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Ahmed Hafez.