Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, will visit Pakistan from October 8 to 10, the Foreign Office announced. The visit comes at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
Gallagher’s visit marks the first-ever trip to Pakistan by a Vatican official holding the position of Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations. It also coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.
During his stay, Gallagher will meet Ishaq Dar to discuss matters of mutual interest. Their talks are expected to focus on interfaith harmony, dialogue, peace and developments affecting the region and the wider international community.
The Vatican envoy is also expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In addition, he will interact with members of Pakistan’s Catholic community during his three-day visit.
Pakistan and the Holy See established diplomatic relations in 1951. Since then, both sides have maintained engagement based on dialogue, religious cooperation, cultural understanding and shared interests.
The Foreign Office described Gallagher’s visit as an important milestone in bilateral relations. It said the engagement would provide an opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding, cooperation and trust between Pakistan and the Holy See.
The visit is also expected to highlight the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence and constructive dialogue among different religious communities. Gallagher’s discussions with Pakistani leadership will cover regional and international developments alongside issues related to interfaith relations.
As Pakistan and the Holy See celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties, the visit is expected to reinforce their longstanding relationship and encourage greater cooperation on peace, dialogue and mutual respect.
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