Iran and Vatican Seek Closer Ties Through Spiritual Diplomacy
Tehran and Vatican City explore new avenues for interfaith dialogue and global peace
Tehran, PUREWILAYAH.COM - In a significant diplomatic move, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi-Amiri, has announced the country’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the Vatican in the realms of spiritual diplomacy and interfaith dialogue. This initiative aims to leverage Iran’s rich pilgrimage heritage and civilizational experience to foster global peace and religious understanding.
During a meeting in Vatican City with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, Salehi-Amiri emphasised the importance of Pope Francis’ declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Global Pilgrimage Tourism.” He described this as an opportunity to revive the role of religions in bringing meaning to a turbulent world and to connect cultural diplomacy with spiritual diplomacy. Salehi-Amiri highlighted that pilgrimage is more than a ritual; it is a shared narrative among nations centered on truth, compassion, and peace.
He further stated that Iran, with its sacred pilgrimage sites and longstanding tradition of spiritual hospitality, is prepared to play an active role in redesigning global pilgrimage routes, organising peace caravans, and expanding scholarly exchanges in interfaith dialogue. According to Salehi-Amiri, the world today needs a renewed commitment to shared religious values, human dignity, and meaningful dialogue.
Archbishop Gallagher welcomed Iran’s approach, noting the Catholic Church’s support for efforts that promote coexistence, spiritual exchange, and the creation of shared pilgrimage pathways. He acknowledged Iran’s significant potential in pilgrimage culture, Islamic theology, and interfaith engagement, expressing eagerness to expand both bilateral and multilateral cooperation for a more ethical and peaceful world.
Salehi-Amiri visited the Vatican as President Masoud Pezeshkian’s special envoy to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV and deliver an official message from the Iranian president. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Prevost, was elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church on May 10, becoming the first American to hold the position.
This renewed engagement between Iran and the Vatican signals a shared commitment to using spiritual and cultural resources to address global challenges and promote peace through dialogue and cooperation.(PW)
Source: IRNA