# Holy See-Pakistan diplomatic relations anniversary

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/holy-see-pakistan-diplomatic-relations-anniversary
> Updated: 2026-10-12T10:22:43.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

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.

## Claims

- The Holy See’s diplomacy prioritizes human dignity, religious freedom, and peace over economic or political interests. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Holy See maintains diplomatic relations with 184 states. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Holy See participates in the United Nations as a Permanent Observer. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Holy See employs a diplomacy of ‘positive neutrality’ to promote the common good. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Relations between Vatican City and Pakistan are excellent. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- A conference was held in Islamabad to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Pakistan. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-12: 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.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/holy-see-marks-75-years-of-diplomatic-relations-with-pakistan

### 2026-10-07: 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.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vatican-envoy-paul-gallagher-to-make-historic-first-visit-to-pakistan

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Cite as: Holy See-Pakistan diplomatic relations anniversary. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/holy-see-pakistan-diplomatic-relations-anniversary