Abp Gallagher Visits Sri Lanka to Commemorate 50 Years of Relations with the Holy See
From November 3 to 8, 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 between Sri Lanka and the Holy See.
This visit aims to reinforce the ongoing commitment to peace and cooperation shared by both nations.
Details of the Visit
- Archbishop Gallagher arrived in Sri Lanka on Monday and was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra, according to the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry.
- On the same day, he is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, as indicated by the official X account of the Vatican Secretary of State.
- On November 4, Archbishop Gallagher will meet President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
- He will also attend a conference titled “Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace”, reflecting on the 50 years of diplomatic ties established on September 6, 1975.
Additional Activities
During his visit, Archbishop Gallagher plans to visit sites affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks of 2019, demonstrating solidarity with the victims and promoting healing.
“The visit also marks an effort to reinforce the shared commitment to peace and cooperation between the two nations.”
This trip highlights the long-standing diplomatic relationship and shared values of peace and dialogue upheld by Sri Lanka and the Holy See.
Summary: Archbishop Gallagher's visit to Sri Lanka commemorates five decades of diplomatic relations, emphasizing peace, dialogue, and remembrance of past tragedies while strengthening bilateral ties.