On April 3, 2025, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, welcomed Estonian President Alar Karis to the Vatican for a significant dialogue focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing pressing regional issues, notably the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Both parties expressed mutual appreciation for the robust diplomatic ties between Estonia and the Holy See. They highlighted the positive impact of the local Catholic community in Estonia, a nation where approximately 6,700 Catholics constitute about 0.5% of the total population. Notably, recent data indicates a growth in the Catholic demographic, increasing from 0.4% in 2011 to 0.8% in 2021.

A central theme of the discussion was the pursuit of peace in the region, with a particular emphasis on the Russia-Ukraine war. Cardinal Parolin and President Karis deliberated on potential avenues to facilitate conflict resolution and promote stability. The Vatican has consistently advocated for peaceful solutions to global conflicts, underscoring the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.

This meeting underscores the Vatican's commitment to engaging with global leaders to address international challenges and foster collaborative efforts aimed at achieving enduring peace and mutual understanding among nations.