Vatican envoy Paul Gallagher to make historic first visit to Pakistan

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, is scheduled to conduct a historic visit to Pakistan from October 8 to 10, 2026. This marks the first time a high-ranking Vatican official in this capacity has visited the country.

The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See, which were established in 1951. At the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Archbishop Gallagher will engage in discussions regarding interfaith harmony, peace, dialogue, and various regional and international developments.

During his three-day stay, the Archbishop is expected to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and interact with the local Catholic community. The Pakistani Foreign Office noted that the visit serves as a milestone in strengthening mutual understanding, cooperation, and trust between the two nations.