From 3 to 8 November, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, is visiting Sri Lanka to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties with the Holy See. This journey emphasizes renewing mutual dedication to peace and collaboration between the two states.
During his visit, Archbishop Gallagher will also observe firsthand the locations impacted by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks in 2019.
Upon arrival on Monday, the Archbishop was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra, according to the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry.
Also on 4 November, the Archbishop will take part in a conference titled “The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace”, celebrating the 50 years of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See established on 6 September 1975.
“The visit marks an effort to reinforce the shared commitment to peace and cooperation between the two nations.”
Archbishop Gallagher’s presence underscores the longstanding partnership and ongoing commitment to dialogue and peacebuilding.
The visit highlights five decades of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See, reaffirming mutual efforts towards peace and addressing past crises.