Pakistan’s role in regional peace and stability has received recognition from Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, a senior representative of the Holy See. He praised Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace through mediation, dialogue and diplomacy, according to the Foreign Office.
Archbishop Gallagher, the Holy See’s secretary for relations with states and international organisations, met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on October 9. His visit marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.
During the meeting, Ishaq Dar welcomed the visiting archbishop and acknowledged the Holy See’s contributions to promoting peace, interfaith harmony and dialogue. He also appreciated the role of Pakistan’s Catholic community, particularly its contributions to education and healthcare.
The Foreign Office said Gallagher commended Pakistan’s constructive role in addressing regional challenges through diplomatic engagement. His remarks highlighted the importance of dialogue and mediation in efforts to maintain stability and resolve disputes peacefully.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 received H.E. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Archbishop is visiting Pakistan to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.
The DPM/FM welcomed the Archbishop and acknowledged the Holy See’s role in promoting peace, interfaith harmony and dialogue, and appreciated the valuable contributions of Pakistan’s Catholic community, particularly in education and health.
Archbishop Gallagher commended Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability through mediation, dialogue and diplomacy.
The DPM/FM appreciated Pope Leo XIV’s principled calls for peace and a just resolution of the Palestine conflict, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people. They expressed deep concern over the continuing humanitarian crisis and emphasized 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.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) October 9, 2026
The discussions also covered the situation in Palestine. Dar appreciated Pope Leo XIV’s calls for peace and a just resolution to the conflict. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Palestinian people amid continuing humanitarian concerns in the region.
Both sides expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and stressed the need for sustained international efforts to advance peace. They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Holy See relations and promoting mutual respect, understanding and peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
The Foreign Office said Gallagher was also expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and interact with members of Pakistan’s Catholic community. The visit represents an opportunity to strengthen bilateral engagement, expand cooperation and reinforce shared commitments to interfaith harmony and peace.
