Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, paid a courtesy call on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday morning (04) at the Presidential Secretariat.
President Dissanayake warmly welcomed the Archbishop and briefed him on the country’s current situation and the progress achieved under his administration, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.
The President expressed his gratitude to Archbishop Gallagher for visiting Sri Lanka to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Sri Lanka. He described the visit as a blessing for the nation, noting that the five decades of diplomatic ties have greatly benefited Sri Lanka—not only spiritually, but also by promoting human dignity and providing support in times of need.
President Dissanayake also highlighted the Vatican’s assistance to Sri Lanka’s education sector and its significant support following the 2004 tsunami. He extended his sincere appreciation for the Holy See’s continued friendship and solidarity over the years and conveyed best wishes to Pope Leo XIV for good health and strength.
Archbishop Gallagher commended the progress Sri Lanka has made in promoting peace and unity among ethnic and religious communities, adding that Pope Leo XIV may consider visiting Sri Lanka in the near future. He also praised the President’s leadership in restoring economic and political stability and reaffirmed the Vatican’s support for Sri Lanka’s efforts to strengthen ethnic and religious harmony and ensure lasting stability.
Archbishop Gallagher is in Sri Lanka from November 3 to 8 on an official visit to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Sri Lanka. During his stay, he will visit several significant sites and take part in a conference titled “The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace.”
He was accompanied by Rev. Monsignor Roberto Lucchini, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Holy See in Colombo, and Rev. Monsignor Tomislav Zubac, Second Secretary of the Secretariat of State. Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake and Senior Additional Secretary Roshan Gamage were also present.
