During a press conference that was held at the Curia, Apostolic Nuncio Aldo Cavalli read to the public the nomination of Mgr Charles Scicluna as the next Archbishop of Malta.

This announcement was made by the Papal Nuncio precisely because it was his role to do it.

The Holy See has bilateral diplomatic relations with most countries, however, the role of apostolic nuncios is unique in world affairs.

It has practically nothing to do with the things with which diplomats usually devote their time to, such as security problems, visas and trade issues.

The main purpose of the Vatican entering in bilateral diplomacy is to secure the freedom of the Catholic Church to be itself in the countries with which the Holy See establishes diplomatic relations.

Thus, the Catholic Church can carry out its evangelical, sacramental, educational and charitable missions unhindered.

Of course, when some type of serious crisis arises in a country, the papal nuncio can also serve to build bridges between contending parties or be a voice for persecuted Christians or a channel for humanitarian aid.