The talks, described as unfolding in an atmosphere of “friendship, trust, and mutual respect,” addressed the state of Vatican-Vietnam relations and the Catholic Church’s contributions to Vietnamese society
Newsroom (17/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a sign of steadily warming relations, the Holy See and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam held their twelfth Joint Working Group meeting on September 12, 2025, in Vatican City, advancing a dialogue marked by mutual respect and cautious optimism. The session, co-chaired by Vietnam’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Le Thi Thu Hang, and the Vatican’s Undersecretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Mirosław Wachowski, focused on strengthening bilateral ties and the role of Vietnam’s Catholic community, a significant religious minority in the country.
The talks, described in an official Vatican communiqué as unfolding in an atmosphere of “friendship, trust, and mutual respect,” addressed the state of Vatican-Vietnam relations and the Catholic Church’s contributions to Vietnamese society. Both sides praised the Church’s efforts to live out its Gospel mission while fostering good citizenship, noting its growing role in education, healthcare, and charitable initiatives. The discussions highlighted progress since the last meeting in Hanoi in May 2024, including regular high-level exchanges and the impactful presence of Archbishop Marek Zalewski, the Holy See’s Resident Papal Representative in Hanoi. His appointment in 2023 marked a historic step in a relationship long shaped by careful diplomacy.
Vietnam, where Catholics number roughly 7 million, has historically imposed restrictions on religious activities, but recent years have seen gradual openings. The Vatican has responded with a strategy of patient engagement, encouraging the faithful to integrate fully into national life while advocating for greater religious freedom. Both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties through ongoing high-level visits and regular Joint Working Group meetings, signaling a shared desire to maintain momentum.
During the visit, the Vietnamese delegation was received by Pope Leo XIV in a private audience, a gesture underscoring the Holy See’s investment in the dialogue. The group also held courtesy meetings with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations. These encounters framed the talks as a serious step toward closer collaboration, rather than a mere diplomatic formality.
For Vietnam’s Catholic community, often navigating tensions between spiritual allegiance to Rome and loyalty to their nation, the meeting carries profound implications. While challenges persist— including disputes over Church property and limits on religious activities— the cordial tone of the talks suggests a new chapter may be emerging. Under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, the Vatican continues to prioritize incremental progress, balancing pastoral care for local Catholics with diplomatic outreach to Hanoi.
As both sides look ahead, the Joint Working Group remains a vital forum for dialogue, offering a framework for Vietnam and the Holy See to build trust. The outcome paints a picture of two partners moving deliberately toward a future where the Church can thrive as both a spiritual and civic force in Vietnam’s evolving landscape.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News and Zenit
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