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Holy See-Pakistan diplomatic relations anniversary

Overview

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

The visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See, established in 1951. Following an invitation from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, the Archbishop was scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and engage with the local Catholic community to discuss interfaith harmony, peace, and regional developments.

During a conference in Islamabad to commemorate the anniversary, Archbishop Gallagher described the Vatican’s diplomatic approach as a ‘positive neutrality’ focused on defending fundamental human rights, religious freedom, and interreligious dialogue rather than pursuing economic or political interests. Holy See Ambassador to Pakistan, Archbishop Christophe El-Kassis, also noted the excellent relations between the two nations during the event.

Entities

Pakistan · Holy See · Paul Richard Gallagher · Mohammad Ishaq Dar · Shehbaz Sharif

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

Timeline

  1. [INTERNATIONAL] 3 sources
    Holy See marks 75 years of diplomatic relations with Pakistan

    Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher marked the 75th anniversary of Holy See-Pakistan diplomatic relations in Islamabad, emphasizing a diplomacy of ‘positive neutrality’ focused on human rights and peace.

  2. [INTERNATIONAL] 4 sources
    Vatican envoy Paul Gallagher to make historic first visit to Pakistan

    Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher will make a historic first visit to Pakistan from October 8-10, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Holy See and Pakistan.

Sources

centreline.com.pk · dailymeezan.com · dnanews.com.pk · islamabadpost.com.pk · misyjne.pl