Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s secretary for relations with states and international organizations, met Catholic Church leaders in Islamabad on October 9 during a three-day visit to Pakistan marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
The Diocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi hosted Archbishop Gallagher, who was accompanied by Archbishop Germano Penemote, apostolic nuncio to Pakistan. Cardinal Joseph Coutts, Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi, and other members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Pakistan welcomed the delegation.
The reception included traditional garlands, cultural performances, spiritual hymns and a guard of honor presented by students from diocesan educational institutions.
In his welcome address, Archbishop Arshad outlined the diocese’s pastoral, educational and social services in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, two provinces in eastern and northwestern Pakistan, respectively.
He also highlighted the Church’s observance of the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi and the Year of Children in the diocese, emphasizing the importance of Christian education, spiritual formation and the personal development of young people.
Archbishop Gallagher conveyed the greetings and blessings of Pope Leo XIV to those gathered. He emphasized the role of religious communities in promoting reconciliation, protecting human dignity and contributing to the common good.
He also called for cooperation among religious communities to foster lasting peace, mutual respect and harmony in Pakistani society, where Christians and other religious minorities live alongside the Muslim majority.
The ceremony concluded with Archbishop Arshad presenting a commemorative shield to Archbishop Gallagher. A luncheon followed, allowing Church leaders and participants to exchange greetings and strengthen relationships.
The Oct. 8–10 visit marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See, the central governing authority of the Catholic Church, and Pakistan, established in 1951.
The visit highlights the Church’s diplomatic engagement with Pakistan and its continuing emphasis on interreligious dialogue, peace and cooperation in a religiously diverse society.
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