Vatican diplomat calls for upholding int'l law in WPS dispute

Vatican's top diplomat, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, emphasized the need to uphold international law in resolving global conflicts, including the West Philippine Sea dispute, during his historic visit to Manila.

Gallagher, the Holy See's Secretary for Relations with States, called on parties in the South China Sea dispute to abide by international law and seek peaceful resolutions.

He stressed that the Holy See makes every effort towards peaceful resolution of differences and problems.

The Archbishop highlighted shared values and vision between the Philippines and the Vatican, focusing on promoting peace through dialogue and negotiation.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo echoed this sentiment, agreeing that the international community must unite to ensure peaceful conflict resolution based on international law.

Gallagher's visit and his statement marked the first time the Vatican publicly addressed the Asian maritime dispute and the first time a Vatican foreign minister visited Manila in the 73 years of diplomacy between the Holy See and the Philippines.