EXCLUSIVE
By Ansar Mahmood Bhatti
ISLAMABAD, NOV 10 /DNA/ – Msgr. Germano Penemote, the Apostolic Nuncio to Pakistan, has lauded Pakistan’s commitment to peace, security, and interfaith harmony, describing the country as a “land of great potential and hospitality.” In an exclusive interview with Daily Islamabad Post, Centreline, and Diplomatic News Agency (DNA), the Holy See envoy reflected on six decades of Pakistan–Vatican relations, the mission of the Catholic Church in the country, and his vision for promoting education, dialogue, and mutual understanding among all faiths.
Appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Pakistan in 2023, Archbishop Penemote said his mission has been guided by the core values of Vatican diplomacy — dialogue, compassion, and service to humanity. “The diplomacy of the Holy See, one of the oldest and most respected in history, seeks to promote the common good through understanding and peaceful coexistence,” he said. “Since my arrival in Pakistan, I have sought to meet people, listen to their concerns, and work with them for solutions. I have brought neither gold nor silver, but a heart full of esteem and respect for the beloved Pakistani people.”
The Nuncio emphasized that his efforts are focused on strengthening bilateral ties between the Holy See and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, while supporting the Catholic Church’s humanitarian and educational work in the country. “Our institutions continue to serve all Pakistanis — Muslims, Christians, and people of other faiths — in education, healthcare, and social welfare,” he added. “We do not sound trumpets or seek publicity; our mission is quiet but constant — to serve humanity.”
Reflecting on the long-standing diplomatic ties between Pakistan and the Vatican, Archbishop Penemote said relations have been strong and stable since their formal establishment in 1965. “We are about to celebrate sixty years of the Apostolic Nunciature’s establishment in Pakistan, a symbol of mutual respect and uninterrupted friendship,” he said. “The Nuncio has always lived and worked in Pakistan, which speaks to the strength of our relationship.”
However, he noted the need for a formal legal framework to further facilitate Catholic institutions’ contributions to national development. “We hope to conclude a legal agreement that will ensure our schools, hospitals, and social organizations can continue serving all Pakistanis effectively,” he explained. “It is heartening to meet Pakistanis who proudly say they studied at Catholic schools — institutions known for providing quality education and nurturing responsible citizens.”
One of the Nuncio’s most ambitious ideas is the establishment of a Catholic University in Pakistan — a center for inclusive, high-quality education open to students of all faiths. “A Catholic University would greatly contribute to interfaith dialogue and national cohesion,” he said. “Such an institution could become a regional beacon of knowledge and peace, attracting students from neighboring countries and fostering understanding across cultures and religions.”
Discussing the Church’s role in promoting interfaith harmony, the Vatican envoy highlighted the importance of the Second Vatican Council’s Declaration Nostra Aetate, which emphasizes dialogue and friendship between the Catholic Church and non-Christian religions. “This landmark document transformed relations among faiths by promoting respect and collaboration,” he said. “In Pakistan, the Catholic Church continues to uphold these principles through education, dialogue, and outreach.”
He also acknowledged Pakistan’s growing engagement for peace and stability in the region. “Pakistan is increasingly committed to internal and external peace,” he said. “It plays a constructive role in defending oppressed peoples and promoting global stability. This commitment should remain the guiding principle for the country’s future, especially for its youth.”
The Nuncio praised the social and humanitarian services rendered by Catholic institutions across Pakistan. “From St. Patrick’s College in Karachi to La Salle High School in Faisalabad, and from Holy Family Hospital in Karachi to St. Joseph’s Hospice in Rawalpindi, Catholic institutions are serving society selflessly,” he observed. “These schools, hospitals, and shelters provide education and healthcare to people of all backgrounds, helping to uplift communities and promote social justice.”
He commended the work of Catholic sisters and missionaries, including the Sisters of Mother Teresa of Calcutta and the Sisters of Charity of St. Jeanne Antide Thouret, who serve the poor and sick across the country. “They are the living example of faith in action — dedicating their lives to serving those most in need,” he said.
Touching on issues of social justice, environmental care, and sustainable development, Archbishop Penemote said the Church has been proactive in all these areas. “Everywhere I go, I see local Catholic communities planting trees, visiting marginalized groups, and engaging with youth. The Church promotes human dignity and rejects exploitation and discrimination of any kind,” he affirmed.
Concluding his remarks, the Nuncio offered a heartfelt message of unity and hope to the people of Pakistan. “All Pakistanis — regardless of religion or background — must recognize that they are brothers and children of the same motherland,” he said. “Unity is the victory of a nation. Let peace begin in our hearts, our families, and our communities, and extend to the nation and the world.”
He also called upon the youth to act responsibly in the age of social media. “A single word can start a fire,” he cautioned. “Use your voice to build, not to destroy. Be ambassadors of peace and goodwill.”
“Pakistan’s values of hospitality, solidarity, and faith are its greatest strengths,” the Vatican diplomat concluded. “With unity, compassion, and dialogue, Pakistan will continue to play an essential role in promoting peace and human dignity across the world. Long live Pakistan!”
