Islamabad:The Vatican's top diplomat, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, began his inaugural visit to Pakistan on Thursday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Gallagher, who holds the position of the Holy See's secretary for relations with states and international organizations, arrived in Islamabad for what is the first visit by a Vatican top diplomat to the predominantly Muslim South Asian nation. This visit will continue through Saturday.

During his stay, Gallagher is set to meet with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss topics of mutual interest, including interfaith harmony, dialogue, and peace, as well as regional and international developments. The archbishop is also expected to have an audience with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and engage with members of the Catholic community in Pakistan.

The visit is seen as a significant milestone in the enduring relationship between Pakistan and the Holy See, underscoring their shared commitment to enhancing mutual understanding, cooperation, and trust. It also aims to promote interfaith harmony and peace, aligning with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two entities.