ISLAMABAD: Archbi­shop Paul Richard Gall­agher, the Holy See’s secretary for relations with sta­tes and international orga­nisations, on Friday com­­­m­ended Pakistan’s “con­structive role in promoting regional peace and stability through mediation, dialogue and diplomacy”, the Foreign Office said.

The archbishop is visiting Pakistan to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.

In a statement, the FO said Deputy Prime Mini­ster and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received Archbishop Gallagher at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr Dar welcomed Archbishop Gallagher and acknowledged the Holy See’s role in “promoting peace, interfaith harmony and dialogue”, it added.

The foreign minister also appreciated the contributions of Pakistan’s Cath­olic community, particularly in education and health, it added.

According to the statement, Archbishop Gall­ag­her commended Pakis­tan’s “constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability through mediation, dialogue and diplomacy”. Moreover, FM Dar appreciated Pope Leo XIV’s principled calls for peace and a just resolution of the Palestine conflict and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people.

During the meeting, they expressed “deep concern over the continuing humanitarian crisis and emphasised the importance of sustained international efforts to advance peace in the region”.

“Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening Pakis­tan-Holy See relations and promoting mutual respect, understanding and peaceful coexistence among faiths.”

In an earlier statement, the FO said that the visiting archbishop was also expected to meet PM Shehbaz Sharif. Archb­ishop Gallagher is also expected to interact with members of the Catholic community 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.

Published in Dawn, October 10th, 2026