Archbishop Gallagher Visits Sri Lanka for 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations
From 3 to 8 November, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, visited Sri Lanka to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties with the Holy See.
The trip aimed to strengthen mutual commitment to peace, dialogue, and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Vatican. During his stay, Archbishop Gallagher also visited locations affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks of 2019.
Meetings with Sri Lankan Leaders
Upon his arrival on Monday, Archbishop Gallagher was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra, according to a statement from the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry.
His official schedule, shared via the Vatican Secretary of State’s X account, included meetings with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya on Monday and, on 4 November, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
Conference on Peace and Dialogue
Later that same day, Archbishop Gallagher took part in a conference titled “The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace.” The event highlighted the history of collaboration between Sri Lanka and the Holy See since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 6 September 1975.
“The visit reaffirms the Vatican’s enduring support for peace and cooperation in Sri Lanka,” a Vatican spokesperson stated.
Author's Summary
Archbishop Gallagher’s November visit to Sri Lanka marked 50 years of diplomacy with the Holy See, underscoring mutual dedication to peace and interfaith dialogue.