Pope Leo XIV May Visit Sri Lanka, Says Vatican Envoy

COLOMBO (News 1st); His Holiness Pope Leo XIV may consider a visit to Sri Lanka in the future, said Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher following talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat.

This statement was revealed by the President's Media Division in a statement issued on Tuesday (4).

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, paid a courtesy call on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The meeting, held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See, focused on the country’s progress under President Dissanayake’s leadership, particularly in promoting peace, unity, and interfaith harmony.

President Dissanayake expressed deep appreciation for Archbishop Gallagher’s visit, calling it a blessing for Sri Lanka.

He acknowledged the Vatican’s longstanding support in areas such as education, humanitarian aid, and post-tsunami recovery, and emphasized the spiritual and social value of the Catholic Church’s presence in Sri Lanka.

Archbishop Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, praised Sri Lanka’s strides in reconciliation and inclusive governance, noting that both he and the Pope admire the country’s efforts. He added that, based on this progress, a papal visit may be considered in the near future.

Archbishop Gallagher is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka and will remain in the country until November 8, 2025.

Source: PMD