Archbishop Gallagher Visits Sri Lanka to Commemorate 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
From 3 to 8 November, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, is visiting Sri Lanka. The visit celebrates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Sri Lanka and the Holy See and aims to strengthen mutual commitment to peace and cooperation.
Commemorative Activities and Meetings
During his stay, Archbishop Gallagher will visit sites impacted by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks in 2019. Upon arrival on Monday, he was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra.
On Monday, Archbishop Gallagher is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya. The following day, 4 November, his agenda includes meetings with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
Conference on Dialogue and Peace
Also on 4 November, Archbishop Gallagher will participate in a conference titled "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, officially established on 6 September 1975.
"The Secretary will participate in a conference on 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, which were established on 6 September 1975."
The visit reflects ongoing efforts to promote peace and deepen bilateral cooperation between the two states.