Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, is set to visit Pakistan from October 8 to 10. This important trip comes at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. It marks the first time a Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See has travelled to Pakistan. The timing is special because both sides are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations that began in 1951.
During the visit, Archbishop Gallagher will hold talks with Ishaq Dar on several key topics. Discussions will focus on interfaith harmony, dialogue, and peace. They will also cover regional and international developments that matter to both countries. The senior Vatican official is expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as well. He plans to engage with members of Pakistan’s Catholic community during his stay.
Pakistan and the Holy See have maintained steady ties over the decades. These relations centre on open dialogue, religious understanding, and cultural cooperation. The upcoming meetings offer a chance to strengthen bilateral understanding further. Both sides aim to promote mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Officials see this visit as a positive step toward deeper cooperation on shared values.
The Foreign Office confirmed the schedule in a recent statement. Gallagher’s role involves handling the Holy See’s relations with states and international organisations. His presence in Islamabad therefore carries extra weight. It highlights the ongoing commitment of Pakistan and the Vatican to work together for harmony and stability. Local Christian communities look forward to the engagement, while government leaders view the talks as timely given current global challenges.
This three day visit is expected to reinforce the long standing partnership. It provides space for frank conversations about peace and interfaith dialogue at a time when such exchanges are needed more than ever. Pakistan continues to value its historic links with the Holy See, and this high level interaction is a clear sign of that enduring friendship.
