May 28, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s diplomatic relations with the Vatican received renewed attention this week as Ambassador Sumith Dassanayake formally presented his credentials to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, officially assuming duties as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Holy See while based in Geneva.
During the credentials ceremony held on May 21, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the growing importance of diplomacy and international cooperation in a world increasingly affected by conflict and political division.
Addressing newly appointed envoys, the Pontiff warned against the pursuit of peace through military strength and domination, stressing instead the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and consensus-building at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels.
The Pope described ambassadors as essential links between nations and the Holy See, noting that diplomacy must continue to serve as a force for trust, understanding and humanitarian cooperation. He also underscored the responsibility of the international community to support vulnerable and marginalised populations, adding that stronger global partnerships could help create a fairer and more peaceful world.
Ambassador Dassanayake conveyed greetings and best wishes from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and requested the Pope’s blessings and prayers for the people of Sri Lanka during a period of national rebuilding and social progress.
Recalling the longstanding friendship between Sri Lanka and the Vatican, the Ambassador reaffirmed an invitation extended by President Dissanayake for Pope Leo XIV to undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka in 2027. Diplomatic observers view the proposed visit as a significant opportunity to further strengthen ties between the two states and deepen interfaith understanding.
On the sidelines of the ceremony, Ambassador Dassanayake held discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, focusing on expanding bilateral engagement and cooperation on international matters of mutual concern.
The Sri Lankan envoy also met Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, who fondly recalled his visit to Sri Lanka in November 2025 to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Holy See.
Archbishop Gallagher praised the warm reception extended to him during the visit and reflected positively on the longstanding relationship shared by the two nations.
Several other non-resident ambassadors, including representatives from Sierra Leone, Bangladesh, Yemen, Rwanda, Namibia, Mauritius and Chad, also presented their credentials to Pope Leo XIV during the same ceremony.