Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath, on behalf of the Government and people of Sri Lanka, expressed humble respect to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, stating that Sri Lanka looks forward to strengthening its engagement with the Holy See under His Holiness’s esteemed leadership. 

Commenting on the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See, Minister Herath said Sri Lanka reflects with pride on the multifaceted engagement between both parties, particularly in the areas of religion, education, healthcare, interfaith dialogue, and humanitarian cooperation. 

“I also take this opportunity to note the enduring support and contribution of the Catholic community, who serve as a bridge in Sri Lanka–Vatican relations. The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka plays a significant role in nation-building, social cohesion, social services, and charity work for the poor and marginalized people in the country. The Catholic community, with its multi- ethnic composition, plays a key role in promoting reconciliation that is widely respected across all communities,” he said.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath made the remarks while addressing the media following the Working Meeting with the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, today. 

Commenting on the meeting in Colombo, Minister Herath said he took the opportunity to appreciate the assistance that the Holy See extended over the past five decades to Sri Lanka and reaffirmed the commitment of Sri Lanka to continue to strengthen the multifaceted bilateral relations. 

“The discussions that Archbishop Gallagher had with the President, the Prime Minister, and me were opportunities to share first-hand the developments in Sri Lanka following the elections of last year, the steps taken by our government in stabilizing the economy, ensuring genuine reconciliation amongst our people, combating bribery and corruption, as well as improving good governance, accountability and human rights,” he said. 

Minister Herath expressed confidence that the excellent relations between the Holy See and Sri Lanka will continue to flourish, promoting greater understanding and serving the common good of the people of Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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