Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the secretary for relations with states and international organisations of the Holy See, is set to make an official visit to Pakistan from Oct 8 to 10, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Wednesday.

In a statement, the FO noted that the Vatican envoy would visit Pakistan at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

The visit, which coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Vatican, would be the first ever visit to the country by a secretary for relations with states and international organisations of the Holy See.

“During the visit, Archbishop Gallagher will meet with the deputy prime minister and foreign minister to discuss matters of mutual interest, including interfaith harmony, dialogue and peace, as well as regional and international developments,” the FO said, adding that the visiting archbishop is also expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Archbishop Gallagher is also expected to interact with members of the Catholic community while in Pakistan.

“The visit marks an important milestone in the longstanding relations between Pakistan and the Holy See and reflects their shared commitment to further strengthening mutual understanding, cooperation and trust, while promoting interfaith harmony and peace,” the FO added.