Vatican envoy Archbishop Paul Gallagher to visit Pakistan for the first time from Oct 8-10

ISLAMABAD: Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s secretary for relations with states and international organisations, will undertake an official visit to Pakistan from October 8 to 10, the Foreign Office said.

Gallagher is travelling to Pakistan at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. His visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.

It will be marked as the first-ever visit to Pakistan by a secretary for relations with states and international organisations of the Holy See.

During his stay, Gallagher will hold talks with Ishaq Dar on bilateral matters, interfaith harmony, peace and dialogue, as well as regional and international developments.

The Vatican envoy is also expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and interact with members of Pakistan’s Catholic community.

The Foreign Office said the visit reflects the longstanding ties between Pakistan and the Holy See and aims to promote greater cooperation, mutual understanding, interfaith harmony and peace.