Vatican City: The Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, received an honorary doctorate from the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaoundé, Cameroon, lauding the Holy See’s diplomatic agreements with African nations as vital to promoting “ecclesiastical freedoms” and advancing the “common good.”
During his visit, Archbishop Gallagher emphasized that the Vatican’s diplomacy serves humanity by safeguarding the Church’s spiritual mission while addressing social and political challenges. He highlighted how agreements with African states have evolved to support religious freedom, collaboration, and societal development, even amid political transitions.
Archbishop Gallagher praised the 2014 Framework Agreement between the Holy See and Cameroon as a model of cooperation. This agreement ensures the Church’s autonomy in ecclesiastical matters, simplifies legal processes for establishing institutions, and underscores a shared commitment to religious liberty and community development.
Tracing the Holy See’s long-standing ties with Africa, he reflected on the Vatican’s role during the colonial era, where early agreements supported educational initiatives and adapted to the growing presence of local clergy. With the end of colonial rule, Vatican diplomacy in Africa expanded rapidly, establishing nunciatures and fostering relationships with nearly all African nations.
He also noted how the agreements enable the Church to pursue its mission of integral human development and assist communities in addressing challenges like education and health. Archbishop Gallagher underscored that modern Vatican diplomacy seeks not privileges but the right to religious freedom and collaboration for the common good.
In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Gallagher reaffirmed the Vatican’s commitment to serving both the Church and humanity. He expressed optimism that the Framework Agreement with Cameroon would continue to bear fruit, particularly benefiting the country’s most vulnerable populations.