Bangladesh envoy meets Pope Leo XIV to deepen Vatican relations
In a historic milestone for Bangladesh, Ambassador Nahida Sobhan, the nation's first female envoy to the Holy See, presented her credentials to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on 21 May 2026.
Sobhan's appointment marks the first time a woman has represented Bangladesh as ambassador to the Holy See.
Full protocol honours were accorded by the Holy See during the ceremony, highlighting its significance.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Earlier, she also served as ambassador to Jordan, marking another historic first for Bangladesh.
During the presentation, she was joined by M Jahirul Quayum, Economic Minister, and Sabuj Ahmed, Counsellor of the Mission.
After the presentation, greetings were exchanged between Pope Leo XIV and Ambassador Sobhan and her delegation.
Ahead of the ceremony, Ambassador Sobhan met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State; Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations; Archbishop Paolo Rudelli, Substitute of the Secretariat of State; and Monsignor Javier Fernández, Chief of Protocol of the Holy See.
Emphasising the importance Bangladesh places on its relationship with the Holy See, she highlighted this during the meetings.
Sobhan recalled the historic visits of Pope Francis in 2017 and Pope John Paul II in 1986, describing them as key milestones in bilateral relations.
Bangladesh's commitment to communal harmony and peaceful coexistence among people of all faiths was reiterated by her.
Her appreciation for the Holy See's advocacy for global peace, climate action, and humanitarian causes—including support for forcibly displaced Rohingya people—was also expressed.
Sobhan encouraged ongoing efforts to promote peace, justice, and the humane treatment of migrants and vulnerable populations worldwide.
Holy See officials expressed hope for deeper engagement between Bangladesh and the Holy See through regular exchanges and high-level visits.
They also commended Bangladesh for its humanitarian support to the Rohingya population.
Mutual respect and a shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations were underscored during the meetings.
