Ishaq Dar and Paul Richard Gallagher discuss peace and interfaith relations

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received Holy See diplomat Paul Richard Gallagher on October 9. Pakistan's Foreign Office said they discussed regional peace, the Palestinian conflict and relations between religious communities.

Archbishop Gallagher, the Holy See's secretary for relations with states and international organisations, is visiting Pakistan to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. The October 8–10 visit is taking place at the invitation of Dar, who is also deputy prime minister.

The Foreign Office said Gallagher praised Pakistan's contribution to regional peace through mediation, dialogue and diplomacy. Dar recognised the Holy See's efforts to promote peace and interfaith harmony. He also highlighted the contributions of Pakistan's Catholic community to education and health care.

The humanitarian situation in the region was another subject of the meeting. According to the ministry, both men expressed deep concern about the continuing crisis and stressed the need for sustained international efforts to advance peace.

Dar welcomed Pope Leo XIV's appeals for peace and a just resolution of the Palestinian conflict, reaffirming Pakistan's solidarity with the Palestinian people. The two sides also expressed their intention to strengthen bilateral relations and encourage mutual respect and peaceful coexistence between faiths.

The Foreign Office had previously said Gallagher was expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and members of the Catholic community during his visit. Those meetings were described as planned in the statement.