Abp Gallagher Visits Sri Lanka to Commemorate 50 Years of Relations with the Holy See
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 relations with the Holy See and to strengthen mutual commitments to peace and collaboration.
Purpose of the Visit
The visit celebrates five decades of diplomatic ties, while also aiming to reinforce ongoing peace efforts and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Vatican.
Visit to Easter Sunday Attack Sites
Archbishop Gallagher plans to visit locations affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks of 2019 as part of his itinerary.
Official Engagements
- Upon arrival on Monday, he was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra, according to the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry.
- He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya on Monday.
- On 4 November, he will hold talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
- The Secretary will participate in a conference focusing on “The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace,” commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations established on 6 September 1975.
"The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace" — Conference theme commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations.
These engagements highlight a shared dedication to peace and partnership between Sri Lanka and the Vatican.
Author’s summary: Archbishop Gallagher's visit to Sri Lanka commemorates 50 years of diplomatic relations with the Holy See, emphasizing peace, dialogue, and remembrance of 2019's tragic attacks.