Vatican envoy to visit Pakistan from Oct 8-10: FO

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, a key Vatican envoy, will journey to Pakistan from October 8th to the 10th, as announced by the Foreign Office on Wednesday. According to the FO, Gallagher's mission is to visit Pakistan upon the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. This visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and the Vatican, making it a historic occasion.

It is noteworthy that this would be the first time a secretary for relations with states and international organizations of the Holy See has ever visited Pakistan. During his tenure in Pakistan, Gallagher is slated to meet with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss matters of mutual interest, which include fostering interfaith harmony, dialogue, peace, as well as addressing regional and international developments.

Furthermore, the visiting archbishop is anticipated to engage with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his visit. Gallagher is also expected to interact with members of the Catholic community while in Pakistan, further solidifying the importance of this milestone in the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the Holy See.

The FO emphasized that this visit is expected to reflect the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen mutual understanding, cooperation, and trust, while promoting interfaith harmony and peace.