New Delhi: In a significant moment of interfaith diplomacy, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, held a high-level meeting with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, in the capital city. The encounter underscored the importance both India and the Holy See place on dialogue, peacebuilding, and spiritual values in the global arena.
Accompanying Archbishop Gallagher was Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, who facilitated the discussions. The Vatican delegation, which has been in India since July 13, has been engaging with Indian officials, Church leaders, and civil society representatives during the course of their visit.
After the meeting, Dr. Jaishankar remarked that it was an honour to welcome Archbishop Gallagher to India. He stated that their conversation delved into the global relevance of faith traditions in fostering mutual respect, harmony, and understanding between diverse peoples and nations. He also highlighted the role of diplomacy in navigating the complex global challenges of the present age, especially those rooted in conflict and religious misunderstanding.
Sources suggest that the Vatican delegation may meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi before concluding their visit, although official confirmation remains pending. Such a meeting would mark a continuation of warm ties between the Indian government and the Holy See, which were prominently displayed during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the Vatican in 2021, where he met with both Pope Francis and Archbishop Gallagher.
The visit by Archbishop Gallagher is being viewed as a reaffirmation of the Vatican’s interest in deepening ties with India a nation that is home to one of the world’s largest religiously diverse populations, including a vibrant Christian community. It also reflects the Vatican’s growing emphasis on using diplomatic engagement as a tool for peace and interreligious solidarity in an increasingly polarized world.
As the delegation wraps up its India tour, observers note that the conversations held during this visit may pave the way for stronger collaboration between the Indian government and the Vatican in areas such as education, humanitarian efforts, cultural exchange, and global peace initiatives.