Abp Gallagher Visits Sri Lanka to Celebrate 50 Years of Relations with the Holy See
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, visited Sri Lanka from 3 to 8 November 2025 to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the Holy See.
The visit aimed to reinforce the mutual commitment to peace and collaboration between Sri Lanka and the Vatican.
Key Events During the Visit
- Archbishop Gallagher traveled to areas affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks of 2019.
- On arrival, he was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra.
- He met Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya on 3 November.
- On 4 November, he held talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath.
- He also participated in a conference titled “The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace”, commemorating the 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 6 September 1975.
“The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace—commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See.”
Significance of the Visit
The visit highlights strengthened ties and ongoing efforts to promote peace following past challenges, underscoring the Vatican's dedication to supporting Sri Lanka.
Author’s summary: Archbishop Gallagher’s visit to Sri Lanka commemorates 50 years of diplomatic ties and emphasizes renewed cooperation and peacebuilding between the Holy See and Sri Lanka.