Vatican City: The Holy See has confirmed fresh progress in its relationship with Viet Nam, following the twelfth meeting of the Viet Nam Holy See Joint Working Group, held on September 12 in Vatican City. The gathering was described as having taken place in an atmosphere of “friendship, trust, and mutual respect,” highlighting a new chapter of constructive engagement between the two sides.
The session was co-chaired by Madam Le Thi Thu Hang, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam, and Monsignor Mirosław Wachowski, Under-Secretary for Relations with States, who led the Vatican delegation. Both parties reviewed the state of bilateral ties and reflected on the current situation of the Catholic Church in Viet Nam, which continues to play a significant role in the country’s social and cultural life.
The statement issued by the Holy See noted that both sides recognized the Church’s contribution to national development, emphasizing the spirit of living the Gospel while being both “good Catholics and good citizens.”
The meeting also reviewed progress achieved since the previous Joint Working Group session, held in Ha Noi in May 2024. Both sides expressed satisfaction with regular consultations, exchanges of delegations at different levels, and the growing engagement of the Holy See through its Resident Papal Representative in Ha Noi, Archbishop Marek Zalewski.
High-level contacts and visits have further reinforced the relationship, which has gradually matured into a model of dialogue between Church and State in Asia.
The delegations agreed on the importance of maintaining momentum by deepening bilateral relations through frequent exchanges, particularly at the highest levels. Plans were reaffirmed to continue the work of the Joint Working Group, providing an institutional framework for dialogue and cooperation.
During their stay in the Vatican, the Vietnamese delegation was received by Pope Leo XIV, who assured them of his prayers for the prosperity of Viet Nam and the flourishing of the Catholic community within the nation. The delegation also paid courtesy visits to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.
Observers have noted that the tone of the XII Joint Working Group meeting reflects a steadily warming relationship between the Holy See and Viet Nam, with both sides seeking to balance respect for sovereignty with recognition of the spiritual contributions of the Catholic community. The Holy See’s emphasis on dialogue and mutual understanding mirrors Viet Nam’s growing openness to collaboration in the international sphere.
The Holy See concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to accompany the Church in Viet Nam in its pastoral mission, while supporting a relationship marked by peace, friendship, and shared responsibility for the common good.